THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) concentrates are concentrated extracts from the marijuana plant. Some of the street names include "dab," "wax," and "shatter." These concentrates deliver a higher percentage of THC than a marijuana plant alone. Some concentrates are also named after the way the THC is extracted. Butane hash oil (BHO) uses butane to extract the THC and concentrate it. While there are some legal ways to use or possess THC concentrates in Utah, it is commonly used illegally in e-cigarettes or incense.

Let’s say you were stopped on a city street or highway in Utah. Whether you know you committed a traffic violation or have no idea why you were stopped, the fact is still the same: you have rights when you’re interacting with law enforcement in Utah. The more you know about your rights, the better your situation will be, especially if you are wrongfully accused or coerced into saying or doing something for which you have the right to refuse. Here are six things you should know about your rights in Utah. Keep in mind, that these are general guidelines that may vary with each situation.

In Utah, the Medical Cannabis Act allows individuals to acquire, use, and sell cannabis legally for certain medical conditions. While it’s legal to use cannabis under this act, there are still plenty of details within the law that may affect those who have a legal right to use cannabis in the state.

The crime of money laundering involves the act of transforming money made from illegal activities or corruption into assets that appear legitimate. Prosecutors have to prove that the money was actually obtained illegally or through corruption, which means there can be room for an experienced defense team to protect against weak and unwarranted accusations.

Staci joins the defense team as an experienced criminal defense and appellate attorney.

In Utah, not all courts are the same. In fact, there are four specialty courts that work with defendants to help them find alternatives to incarceration and/or a reduction of charges. Specialty courts are mainly for those who have substance abuse issues or a mental health diagnosis. These courts work with defendants to reduce the possibility they will commit crimes in the future. This includes court-ordered requirements such as treatment and classes.

In Utah, automobile theft is classified within the broader theft and robbery laws. However, stealing a car has its own penalties. For example, stealing property that is valued between $500 and $1,500 is considered a class A misdemeanor and the punishment could be up to 364 days in jail and/or up to $2,500 fine. BUT if the property stolen is a car, even if its value is less than $1,500, the crime is automatically considered a second-degree felony. And that could mean one to 15 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines. So, whether someone steals a 1988 Honda Accord or a 2022 Tesla, the punishment is the same. There is no differentiation in the law for the value of the vehicle. If you steal a car, you steal a car, and that’s classified as a second-degree felony. 

If you are charged with reckless driving, you’ll be getting more than just a traffic ticket from the officer who pulls you over. The crime of reckless driving in Utah is considered a class B misdemeanor, which means if you are found guilty, you could face a fine of up to $1,000 or up to six months in jail. But what counts as reckless driving?

Revenge porn is a relatively new phenomenon that refers to the practice of distributing sexually explicit photographs or videos without the consent of an individual featured in the images. Utah has been one of the leading states in criminalizing the distribution of intimate images, otherwise known as revenge porn.