Allegations of vindictive prosecution are an uncommon legal defense but can be a powerful avenue for defendants; such motions are notoriously difficult to win.
October 08, 2025
high
legal
Describes the nature and typical difficulty of vindictive-prosecution claims in U.S. criminal proceedings.
Defendants in United States federal criminal cases can seek dismissal of charges by filing motions alleging selective or vindictive prosecution, unlawful appointment of prosecutors, outrageous government conduct, or problems with the grand jury process.
October 08, 2025
high
legal
Common legal defenses and procedural challenges available in federal criminal litigation.
Grand juries are secret proceedings in which defendants and defense attorneys are generally not present to ask questions or defend themselves.
October 06, 2025
high
legal
Describes the typical format of grand jury proceedings in U.S. practice.
Deferred entry of judgment programs allow eligible defendants, often younger defendants, to plead no contest or guilty and have charges dismissed upon successful completion of probation or program conditions.
October 06, 2025
high
legal
Describes a common type of diversion program available in some U.S. jurisdictions that can lead to dismissal of charges.
In federal criminal proceedings, a defendant seeking release on bond pending appeal must demonstrate a substantial question of law or fact material to the appeal that justifies release.
high
legal
Standard applied by federal courts when deciding whether to grant bond while a criminal appeal is pending.