U.S. states are inconsistent in how they treat voluntary drinking by an accuser. Some states now prohibit an accused person from using their accuser’s drinking as a defense to a sexual assault charge. Others, including New York, still allow prosecutors to choose not to pursue a case if the accuser was voluntarily intoxicated when the…

Among President Trump’s many goals in his second term is an effort to end bail reforms that reduce the use of cash bail for many criminal charges. Executive orders from the White House and bills introduced in both chambers of Congress seek to enact various versions of these reforms.  Now, New York Congressmember Elise Stefanik…

On September 3, 2025, New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced the launch of the state’s largest criminal vape enforcement action to date. The action has resulted in over a dozen arrests and nearly 40 criminal charges.  The Focus of the Criminal Vape Enforcement Action The enforcement action focused on businesses and business owners suspected of…

Several significant changes to New York’s criminal justice laws appeared in 2025. These changes affect the criminal justice process, specific criminal statutes, and operations of various courts throughout New York. Additional changes are still working through the state legislature, creating the potential for more adjustments before the year’s end. Discovery Reform Makes Headlines Throughout New…