Ask a Trooper: Understanding the Rules for Stop Signs and Your Legal Obligations

Understanding the rules of the road is crucial for maintaining safety and order, yet one common source of confusion persists: the correct way to approach and proceed at stop signs. This confusion can lead to unsafe driving practices, potentially causing accidents and infractions. Stop signs are designed to manage traffic flow and ensure that drivers navigate intersections safely. According to nationwide traffic laws, a vehicle must come to a complete stop at the stop sign. The fine line between a complete stop and a rolling stop often leads to traffic violations. A complete stop means … Read more

Navigating Oregon’s Public Defender System: Eligibility Criteria and Financial Obligations Explained

PORTLAND, Ore. — In Oregon, accessing a public defender isn’t as straightforward as one might think. There are a range of stipulations and potential repayments involved, conditions which reflect both the complexities of the legal system and the ongoing public defender shortage that threatens to undermine the right to representation. This situation raises several important questions about justice delivery, particularly for those unable to afford private attorneys. Under the U.S. Constitution, every criminal defendant has the right to legal representation. However, not everyone qualifies for a free public lawyer in Oregon. Eligibility hinges on financial … Read more