christopher corso

Avvo Interviews Corso Law Group Founder on Martin Shkreli Case

Martin Shkreli is one of the most talked about men in America right now. In his recent appearance before a congressional committee, Shrekli pleaded the fifth when asked questions about highly increased drug prices.

Christopher Corso, founder of Corso Law Group weighed in on the national controversy and if Martin Shkreli had the right to plead the Fifth in such a serious case.

Does the Fifth Amendment even apply in this situation?

The Fifth Amendment to the Constitution protects citizens from self-incrimination, stating that no person “shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself.” As Shrkeli’s hearing was not a matter of criminal inquiry, was his taking the Fifth an appropriate response?

“[The Fifth Amendment] covers any statement that would tend to give rise to criminal liability on the speaker’s part,” says criminal defense lawyer Christopher Corso, founder of Corso Law Group. “Mr. Shkreli fully had the right to plead the Fifth.” The hearing was more about the ethical than the criminal implications of Shkreli’s actions, but Corso says it comes down to who’s making the determination about what was and was not legal.

“Until you’re with attorneys, you may be [unwittingly] adding information,” cautions Corso, “Answers that may perhaps—even in a miniscule way—open yourself up to criminal liability is a problem. Therefore, he is able to plead the Fifth.”

Did Congress intentionally try to make Shkreli look bad?

Bottom line: No matter what you think of Shkreli, he was not improperly invoking his constitutional rights. “As somebody that advocates for the constitution,” says Corso, “I would say no, the 5th Amendment was not abused.”

Read the full article here: http://stories.avvo.com/rights/did-martin-shkreli-have-the-right-to-plead-the-fifth.html

Scottsdale DUI Lawyers at Corso Law Group Warn of Increased DUI Patrols During Arizona Spring Training

During the first week of spring training in 2015, the Arizona Department of Safety reported 59 DUI arrests near the games. With millions of fans expected to turn out this season, baseball fans should be aware that increased DUI patrols are expected, according to Scottsdale DUI lawyer Christopher Corso.

As fans around the state prepare for the games, it’s important to note that after a game is over, the Center for Advancing Health estimates that 40 percent of fans will still have alcohol in their body.

“During spring training, law enforcement will not hesitate to arrest or give citations to those who who appear to be acting irresponsible while under the influence,” said Corso, founder of Corso Law Group. “If you or someone you know finds themselves in a difficult legal situation, it’s important to understand your rights and to stay silent until you have a DUI defense attorney present.”

Last year, law enforcement officials told 3TV, “more people were drinking and driving home from ball games than any other time in recent memory – with many offenders being from out of state,” an important wake up call to out-of-state residents who need to understand the seriousness of driving under the influence in Arizona.

“With so many out-of-state residents traveling to Arizona to follow their favorite baseball team, it’s important for them to know they’re not exempt from our tough DUI laws,” Corso said.

In Arizona, the penalties for drinking and driving are serious and can result in a mandatory jail sentence of 24 hours to 10 days. Along with jail time, offenders may be potentially required to undergo alcohol education, equip their vehicle with a certified ignition interlock device and be ordered to perform community service.

“During this fun time, we want to remind fans to stay safe and be responsible,” Corso said, “However, if for some reason you find yourself in legal trouble, remember that Corso Law Group is here to defend your rights and help to ensure your civil liberties aren’t violated.”

Corso Law Group is an experienced team of legal professionals who have handled thousands of Arizona DUI cases. Founder Christopher Corso is a former Maricopa County prosecutor who can help with drunk driving cases as well as other criminal defense needs such as criminal speeding, CDL tickets, photo radar tickets, felony charges, drug possession, weapons possession, violent crimes and more.

Free consultations are available with Corso Law Group by visiting https://www.corsolawgroup.com or calling (480) 471-4616.

Corso Law Group, PLLC Arizona offices are located at 8655 E. Via De Ventura, Suite F-165 in Scottsdale, Arizona 85258. The firm’s Texas offices are located at 5177 Richmond Ave., Suite 1250 in Houston, Texas 77056.

Lawyers Caution of Increased DUI Patrols on St. Patrick’s Day

Scottsdale, Arizona — With 240 DUI arrests during last years St. Patrick’s Day, Arizonans can expect an increase in DUI enforcement for this year’s celebration, according to Phoenix DUI lawyer Christopher Corso.

Widely celebrated across the country, St. Patrick’s Day is one of the most dangerous holidays due to the number of drunk drivers on the road. In 2013, 40 percent of all crash fatalities involved drunk drivers during St. Patrick’s Day weekend, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

As Arizona law enforcement gears for up St. Patrick’s Day, DUI patrols will be out in full force in order to combat DUI’s and other alcohol-related arrests.

“When it comes to holidays, like St. Patrick’s Day, law enforcement takes a closer look at the roads to stop drivers,” said Christopher Corso, founder of Corso Law Group “The police are ready to make these DUI arrests and that can come with deep consequences.”

In Arizona, DUI consequences are harsh. First time DUI offenders can face up to 10 days in jail, expensive fines, mandatory alcohol education, community service and the installation of an ignition interlock.

As well as the legal consequences, a DUI conviction can also come with increased car insurance premiums. According to Nerdwallet, after a DUI conviction, drivers face an average increase of $857.53 a year for insurance.

“If you plan on drinking during St. Patrick’s Day, understand that Arizona has some of the strictest DUI laws in the country,” Corso said “We always ask people to stay responsible during this holiday, however, if you find yourself in legal trouble, know that the experienced DUI lawyers at Corso Law Group are here to help.”

Corso Law Group is an experienced team of legal professionals who have handled thousands of Arizona DUI cases. Founder Christopher Corso is a former Maricopa County prosecutor who can help with drunk driving cases as well as other criminal defense needs such as criminal speeding, CDL tickets, photo radar tickets, felony charges, drug possession, weapons possession, violent crimes and more.

Free consultations are available with Corso Law Group by calling (480) 471-4616.

Corso Law Group, PLLC Arizona offices are located at 8655 E. Via De Ventura, Suite F-165 in Scottsdale, Arizona 85258. The firm’s Texas offices are located at 5177 Richmond Ave., Suite 1250 in Houston, Texas 77056.

 

 

“Making a Murderer” Series Explained from a Criminal Defense Perspective

The newly famous Netflix series “Making a Murderer”, based on the life of Steven Avery, and the murder trials he and his nephew Brendan Dassey endured, questions the legal system, DNA evidence and the legitimacy of the justice system. The documentary took ten years to make, questioning, explaining and presenting each piece of Avery and Dassey’s cases and personal stories from beginning to end.

After spending 18 years in prison for a sexual assault crime he was innocent for, Avery was exonerated by DNA evidence. This is the first of the legal battles discussed in the non- fictional crime series, where not only was there no specific evidence to incarcerate Avery in the first place, but he also had an alibi for the crime he was convicted of. Avery was framed by the Manitowoc County but after his release, Avery questionably stayed in the same town.

Years later, the main case of the series begins, as Avery is charged with the murder of Teresa Halbach, by the same law enforcement that wrongly accused and sentenced him to prison the first time. From this point on, what’s interesting to a criminal defense attorney is how the state worked to collect, maintain and present the evidence they said proved Avery’s guilt.

Christopher Corso, founder of Corso Law Group recently discussed the Avery case on Price of Business, where he gave his criminal defense point of view. In regards to the DNA portion, Corso spoke to the point that although DNA technology continues to improve, criminal defense attorneys are still skeptical.

In the Steven Avery case, the state was allowed to search Avery’s home without him there several different times for any evidence relating to Halbach’s murder. During one of the last searches, police found Steven Avery’s DNA on a car key in his home that they said belonged to Halbach. However, the DNA found in this case doesn’t fully make sense.

Christopher Corso went on the say that defense attorney’s skepticism lies in the fact that when labs pull DNA off of “evidence”, it’s difficult to separate the multiple strands present. This is not a new issue either, as prosecutors tend to be selective. While it depends on the region and the situation you’re in, crucial case outcomes have been determined by a simple strand of DNA. How is it that one DNA test can prove so much?

Prosecutors want to use this evidence because they feel it’s unique and strong towards their case. How can DNA be completely reliable? The level of the sophistication in the technology is good and advancements continue, but the true question is who is actually pushing the buttons? Who are the people facilitating this and is it fair?

Avery seemed to be the target for the murder of Halbach since the beginning. In his Price of Business segment, Corso goes on to say that the longer Avery stayed in that town, the more that circle of law enforcement profiled him. Avery was doomed, and he was going to be the first suspect Manitowoc County looked to for this type of crime.

Since the series began, a petition was started for Avery and his nephew Dassey to be pardoned for the murder. A response to the petition  was released on whitehouse.gov.

The statement says “Since Steven Avery and Brendan Dassey are both state prisoners, the President cannot pardon them.”

Avery has since also written a letter from prison, declaring that “the truth will set him free.” Currently, Avery is serving a life sentence for the murder of Teresa Halbach.

Scottsdale DUI Attorneys at Corso Law Group Expect a DUI Crackdown for the 2016 Waste Management Phoenix Open

Golf fans at the 2016 Waste Management Phoenix Open will be under intense police scrutiny with strict DUI enforcement, Valley-wide DUI task forces and a special DUI campaign all creating the potential for increased arrests, according to Scottsdale DUI attorney Christopher Corso.

Corso, founder of Corso Law Group, says police activity and DUI checkpoints will saturate TPC Scottsdale and the surrounding area. In recent years, officers have been positioned at points of entry to the Phoenix Open to intercept visibly intoxicated guests, offer Breathalyzer tests as part of the “Know Your Limit Campaign” and look out for any additional violations.

“Law enforcement is well aware that crowds of people will be drinking all day and are prepared to act on any criminal activity they come across, especially drunk driving,” Corso said. “As criminal defense lawyers, we’re here to defend your rights and to make sure the police don’t violate your civil liberties.”

Golf fans will be dealing with more than just Scottsdale police officers during the tournament.

The tournament draws thousands of attendees every year – in 2015, a record-breaking 564,368 people attended the open – leading police departments from Mesa, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert and Tempe to work together to crack down on drunk driving throughout the state.

A majority of arrests at the Phoenix Open are typically alcohol related, and 646 of 1,856 people who participated in breath tests during one day of the event in 2015 blew over the legal limit,  ABC15 reports.

“This is an event people look forward to all year, and it definitely draws a lively crowd,” Corso said. “If things get out of hand, we’re here to defend the rights of anyone who ends up in a tough legal position.”

Corso Law Group is an experienced team of legal professionals who have handled thousands of Arizona DUI cases. Founder Christopher Corso is a former Maricopa County prosecutor who can help with drunk driving cases as well as other criminal defense needs such as criminal speeding, CDL tickets, photo radar tickets, felony charges, drug possession, weapons possession, violent crimes and more.

Free consultations are available with Corso Law Group by calling (480) 471-4616.

Corso Law Group, PLLC is located at 17470 N. Pacesetter Way Scottsdale, AZ 85255.

Strict DUI Enforcement on Super Bowl Sunday May Lead to Increased Arrests on Phoenix Roads

Experienced Arizona DUI attorney Christopher Corso says Arizonans can expect zero leniency from police on Super Bowl Sunday this year – especially when it comes to drunk driving.

The Super Bowl is a big day for drinking, with an estimated 323.5 million gallons of beer consumed and 49.2 million cases sold on Super Bowl Sunday in the U.S.

The annual event brings with it plenty of parties and festivities, meaning saturation points and patrols will be out in full force to combat drunk driving accidents and DUIs, which can be up to twice as likely on Super Bowl Sunday than any other Sunday, The Los Angeles Times reports.

“Law enforcement knows the Super Bowl is one of the most dangerous days for drinking and driving, and they’re stepping up their presence by enforcing DUI laws and punishing violators to the highest degree,” Corso said. “Even if you’re under the legal limit, Arizona law states that you could still be apprehended.”

Arizona is the strictest state in the nation when it comes to DUI laws. It’s also a no-tolerance state, which means police can arrest anyone who they believe is showing signs of impairment, even if their blood alcohol content (BAC) is less than the legal limit of .08 percent.

For those who are arrested for DUI on Super Bowl Sunday, the consequences can be severe. Even a first-time DUI offense can mean up to 10 days in jail, a 90-day license suspension and the required installation of an ignition interlock device in Arizona.

Previous DUI offenses and high BACs could lead to even more intense penalties as multiple-offenses and extreme DUIs result in increased jail time, higher fines, counseling, community service and longer license suspensions.

“This isn’t a time to gamble with your freedom,” Corso said. “If’ you’re arrested for a possible DUI during Super Bowl weekend, having the experienced DUI attorneys at Corso Law Group onyour side can make a big difference.”

Corso Law Group has extensive experience with all types of Arizona DUIs, including misdemeanor and felony DUI charges.

“Our attorneys are well-versed in Arizona’s strict DUI laws, and we understand how challenging DUI defense,” Corso said. “We’re here to assist Arizonans who find themselves in a difficult legal situation on high-risk days, like Super Bowl Sunday, and on any other day of the year.”

Corso Law Group is an experienced team of legal professionals who have handled thousands of Arizona DUI cases. Founder Christopher Corso is a former Maricopa County prosecutor who can help with drunk driving cases as well as other criminal defense needs such as criminal speeding, CDL tickets, photo radar tickets, felony charges, drug possession, weapons possession, violent crimes and more.

Free consultations are available by visiting https://corsolawgroup.com or calling (480) 471-4616.

Corso Law Group, PLLC is located at 17470 N. Pacesetter Way Scottsdale, AZ 85255.

 

College Football National Championship Game Brings Crime to Phoenix According to Criminal Defense Attorneys at Corso Law Group

Thousands of football fans will flood the Valley for the College Football National Championship in Glendale, Ariz. on Jan. 11., leading to increased crime and police presence on game day, according to criminal defense attorney and former prosecutor Christopher Corso, founder of Corso Law Group.

Approximately 72,000 fans are expected to attend the championship game in Glendale, and 20,000 more will be watching from surrounding bars and restaurants in Westgate, The Arizona Republic reports.

While this spike in visitors is great for the local economy and tourism, large crowds, parties and alcohol consumption bring crime to hosting cities. In some instances where games resulted in upset, crimes such as assault increased by 112 percent, according to a study examining the connection between college football games and crime.

“Large crowds can bring about security and safety issues. With so many people concentrated in one area, large-scale events like college football games become targets for accidents and criminal activity,” Corso said.

Police in Glendale, downtown Phoenix, where additional events will take place, and across the Valley know this to be true and aren’t taking any chances.

Officials in Glendale are planning to implement extensive security for the national championship game, which will take place at University of Phoenix Stadium. In Phoenix, the director of Homeland Security and Emergency Management for the city said thousands of law enforcement and fire officials will be working the event, including 300 to 400 at the command post, KTAR News reports.

“Police will be on high-alert for any violation of the law, whether it’s assault, drunk driving or theft,” Corso said. “Arizona is becoming a destination for national events, and officials are doing whatever it takes to keep it that way.”

Corso Law Group is an experienced team of legal professionals who have handled thousands of Arizona DUI cases. Founder Christopher Corso is a former Maricopa County prosecutor who can help with drunk driving cases as well as other criminal defense needs such as criminal speeding, CDL tickets, photo radar tickets, felony charges, drug possession, weapons possession, violent crimes and more.

Free consultations are available with Corso Law Group by visiting https://corsolawgroup.com or calling (480) 471-4616.

Corso Law Group, PLLC is located at 17470 N. Pacesetter Way Scottsdale, AZ 85255.

Scottsdale DUI Attorneys Warn of Heightened DUI Patrols on New Year’s Eve

Phoenix – Veteran Scottsdale DUI attorney and founder of Corso Law Group, Christopher Corso, says Valley residents will be under extra scrutiny during Arizona’s DUI crackdown this New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

Police are increasing saturation patrols in Phoenix, the East Valley and the West Valley throughout the holiday weekend and New Year’s Day, according to a statement by the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety.

The program is tasked with lowering the number of intoxicated drivers on the road with patrols and traffic stops that resulted in 14,079 sober, designated drivers contacted to escort impaired drivers home in 2014.

Corso says Valley residents can expect to see DUI patrols and stops in the days leading up to New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

“Law enforcement officials are well aware that New Year’s Eve ranks as one of the deadliest holidays, and they’re taking action,” Corso said. “Police will be on high-alert for drunk drivers and won’t hesitate to give out citations or make arrests for traffic violations.”

In recent years, Arizona officials have steadily increased their numbers during New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, sending a message to the public that drunk driving will not be tolerated during the holidays, when approximately 42 percent of traffic fatalities are related to drinking and driving, according to the National Safety Council.

Roads are particularly dangerous after midnight toasts and during the early hours of New Year’s Day, the day of the year with the highest percent of alcohol-related deaths. On New Year’s Day, the percentage of deaths involving a car accident increases by 51 percent.

“If New Year’s Eve festivities end in legal trouble, Valley residents can count on Corso Law Group to provide the defense they need,” Corso said.

Corso Law Group is an experienced team of legal professionals who have handled thousands of Arizona DUI cases. Founder Christopher Corso is a former Maricopa County prosecutor who can help with drunk driving cases as well as other criminal defense needs such as criminal speeding, CDL tickets, photo radar tickets, felony charges, drug possession, weapons possession, violent crimes and more.

Free consultations are available with Corso Law Group by visiting https://corsolawgroup.com or calling (480) 471-4616.

Corso Law Group, PLLC is located at 17470 N. Pacesetter Way Scottsdale, AZ 85255.

Scottsdale Law Firm Corso Law Group Believes in Providing the Best Possible Legal Representation, Clients Say

A strong passion for justice and dedication to defending the rights of their clients as well as an extensive knowledge of Arizona state and national laws have given Corso Law Group a competitive edge against other Arizona attorneys, and satisfied clients are sharing their positive experiences.

“Providing a personal touch is one of the rules we live by at Corso Law Group,” said founding partner Christopher P. Corso, Esq. “All of the positive reviews and positive feedback we receive bring us closer to our clients and allow us to continue to grow as a firm.

Several triumphant clients support Corso’s comments with positive reviews.

“I am very blessed to have walked into the law offices of Corso Law Group,” Alex L. said. “Their associates were only a call away, and they have been handling my cases ever since then. I currently live out of state, but Corso Law Group always keeps me updated, follows up with me and…believes in me. I don’t know what I would do without their judgement and strict belief in justice.”

The criminal defense attorneys of Corso Law Group aggressively work to defend their clients, but they also take the time to get to know each individual to meet their specific legal needs.

Another Corso Law Group review amplifies this statement.

“They were easy to work with and did not hide anything,” Anthony S. of Scottsdale said. “They showed me how the case would typically proceed and made sure I was comfortable. My first time with a lawyer was easy. They make you feel at home. My case was dismissed, as they predicted. Try them, I recommend them all day long.”

The experienced attorneys at Corso Law Group are experts in criminal law, handling all criminal defense cases, including DUI defense, domestic violence defense, possession of drugs, felony drug charges, photo radar, criminal speeding, disorderly conduct and marijuana possession.

Corso Law Group also handles all types of Arizona family law cases, including Arizona divorce issues such as child custody, child support, alimony disputes, spousal support issues and visitation rights. And the Arizona lawyers are experts at Arizona personal injury and accident cases. From worker’s compensation claims to Arizona auto accidents, the personal injury lawyers at Corso Law Group continue to garner positive reviews for their attention to detail and their care and commitment.

The experienced attorneys at Corso Law Group serve clients throughout Arizona, including the cities of Ahwatukee, Avondale, Buckeye, Chandler, El Mirage, Gilbert, Glendale, Goodyear, Mesa, Peoria, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Sun City, Surprise, Tempe, Tolleson and Youngtown. To schedule a free consultation, please visit www.corsolawgroup.com or call (480) 471-4616. Corso Law Group, PLLC is located at 17470 N. Pacesetter Way Scottsdale, AZ 85255.

Arizona DUI Lawyers Corso Law Group Remind Valley of DUI Risks for St. Patrick’s Day 2014

The Phoenix area offers plenty of fun and festivities every year for Valley residents to enjoy during St. Patrick’s Day weekend. Holidays are by all means a time to celebrate, but Corso Law Group wants to remind you to celebrate responsibly and be aware of the dangers of driving under the influence and the consequences of a DUI or DWI conviction in Arizona.

Arizona DUI lawyers Corso Law Group know from experience that St. Patrick’s Day means an increase in Arizona DUI arrests because the alcohol-fueled holiday results in partygoers not designating a sober driver or not realizing they are incapable of driving.

In 2013, 273 DUI arrests were made statewide from Thursday to Sunday of St. Patrick’s Day weekend, just shy of the more than 280 arrests made in 2012.Arizona DUI Charges

Although police believe that this number is not terribly high compared to other December holidays, any number of drunk drivers is still a danger to themselves and those around them, which is why it’s important to remember that the only way to prevent DUI related accidents is to never drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

“Holidays like St. Patrick’s Day mean that more people are engaging in behavior that can land them in jail for an alcohol-related offense,” said a Corso Law Group founding partner.

Christopher P. Corso knows the hazards of drinking and driving. His firm previously prosecuted DUIs, DWIs and OUIs for the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office. Combined, they have handled more than 15,000 DUI cases as prosecutors and defense attorneys.

“It’s important that Arizona residents arm themselves with the facts if they’re suspected of driving under the influence,” said an attorney at the firm.

For people suspected of a DUI in Arizona, our lawyers caution that they understand their rights including the right to remain silent; only providing insurance, registration and identification; and refusing to submit to all field sobriety tests. According to their attorneys, a blood and alcohol test is the only test a person suspected of drunk driving should take.

Arizona takes DUI laws very seriously, even for first time offenders. Any person found guilty of drinking and driving is required to serve a minimum of 24 hours in jail, even if there were no damages or injuries involved.

Heavy fines are also included with DUI convictions and can be as high as $2,500 plus additional charges. Other penalties assessed include suspension of driving privileges, probation and the installation of an ignition interlock device.

“DUI is a serious offense and something that no person should take lightly,” Corso said. “When you’re armed with the facts, it makes it even more vital that you have a designated driver if you plan on drinking on St. Patrick’s Day.”

Every DUI defense case in Arizona is different, and the outcome is dependent upon the specific facts and circumstances surrounding the DUI charges, which makes having an experienced Arizona DUI defense attorney even more important.

In addition to DUIs and DWIs, the Arizona criminal defense attorneys at Corso Law Group handle myriad criminal cases, including domestic violence defense, possession of drugs, felony drug charges, photo radar, criminal speeding, disorderly conduct and marijuana possession.

Corso Law Group attorneys do everything in their power to protect defendants’ families and advocate for their rights. They have the experience and expertise to deal with DUI charges in Arizona and will fight to get the charges dismissed while counseling the accused’s family.

To schedule a free consultation, please visit www.corsolawgroup.com or call (480) 471-4616. Corso Law Group, PLLC is located at 17470 N. Pacesetter Way Scottsdale, AZ 85255.

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