Lexington Legal Blog & Information

Is Verbal Abuse a Crime in Kentucky?

People say things in anger that they might never say otherwise. An argument between neighbors, a disagreement at home, or a string of heated text messages can quickly get out of hand. But can harsh words actually lead to criminal charges? In Kentucky, verbal abuse by itself is generally not a crime. Still, certain threats,… read more

What Constitutes Domestic Violence in Kentucky?

Many people facing these charges are surprised to learn that “domestic violence” is not a standalone crime in Kentucky. There is no single criminal offense titled “domestic violence” that a person is charged under. Instead, Kentucky law defines “domestic violence and abuse” in KRS § 403.720, but it’s not a specific criminal charge. When a… read more

What To Do if You’ve Been Charged With Involuntary Manslaughter

Being charged with what is commonly called involuntary manslaughter may involve allegations of second-degree manslaughter or reckless homicide in Kentucky. Second-degree manslaughter applies when a person wantonly causes another person’s death, while reckless homicide applies when a person recklessly causes a death. Neither offense requires an intent to kill.  A case may arise from an… read more

What Is Failure to Comply?

The phrase “failure to comply” can appear in many different legal contexts. Generally, it means that a person did not follow a requirement imposed by law, a court, or another legal authority. What happens next will vary based on the requirement involved and the circumstances surrounding the alleged violation. Failure to comply does not describe… read more

Suhre & Associates Wins Gold—Voted #1 in Criminal Defense Law in Best of Lexington 2026

Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers has been awarded Gold in the Best of Lexington 2026 awards, earning the #1 spot for Criminal Defense Law. Because Lexington residents vote on the awards, the recognition reflects the community’s confidence in us. The Gold award is a meaningful honor for a criminal defense firm that… read more

Top 6 Telltale Signs You Hired a Bad Lawyer and How to Avoid It in the Future

Hiring a lawyer is one of the most important decisions you can make when facing criminal charges. Your attorney can have a significant impact on your defense strategy, your understanding of the legal process, and potentially the outcome of your case. While no lawyer can guarantee a particular result, every client deserves competent representation, honest… read more

Open Container Laws in Kentucky

Being pulled over with an open alcoholic beverage in your car can lead to legal trouble in Kentucky. Per state law, simply having an open container within reach is enough to result in a citation, regardless of whether you were drinking at the time. Many people are surprised to learn that this law applies to… read more

How Long Can the Police Detain You Without a Charge?

Being stopped by police can be stressful, especially if you are unsure whether you are under arrest or free to leave. Law enforcement officers in Lexington and throughout Kentucky are required to follow all legal and due process requirements that limit how long a person can be detained.  Kentucky law limits how long a suspect… read more

What You Should Know About Title IX Mandatory Reporting

Title IX is a federal law that prohibits sex-based discrimination in any school that receives federal funding. While most people associate it with athletics, the law also covers serious issues like sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking. One of the most significant parts of Title IX is its mandatory reporting requirement, which can… read more

What to Expect at an Initial Legal Consultation

Meeting with a criminal defense attorney for the first time can feel intimidating. Whether you were recently arrested, charged with a DUI, or informed that you are under investigation, uncertainty about the legal process often causes stress and anxiety. Many people worry about what questions will be asked, whether they should talk openly about their… read more