In a divided opinion (2-1), the Indiana Court of Appeals recently held in Katelin Eunjoo Seo v. State of Indiana, 29A05-1710-CR-2466 that the State cannot compel a person to unlock their smarphone. “The defendant was charged with invasion of privacy, stalking, intimidation and other charges stemming from the alleged harassment of another person. As part of the criminal investigation, law enforcement obtained a warrant compelling the defendant to unlock her iPhone - either by unlocking the phone and removing the passcode feature or by changing the passcode to 1234. When the defendant refused, the trial court held her in contempt and ordered the defendant to unlock the phone.
The Indiana Court of Appeals reversed the contempt finding and order to unlock the smartphone. In doing so, the Indiana Court of Appeals held that the act of unlocking, and therefore decrypting the contents of the smartphone, would be akin to compelling testimony against oneself in violation of a defendant's 5th Amendment right not to incriminate oneself. Because this is a case of first impression in the State of Indiana, it most certainly will be reviewed by the Indiana Supreme Court. Stay tuned to see if the highest court in Indiana agrees with this decision. Being in a motor vehicle accident can be a physically and emotionally destructive event. Here are 8 tips you should keep in mind after any accident involving automobiles:
Dealing with insurance companies can add to the emotional stress of any accident. You won't have to fight alone if you trust in Pierce to fight for your rights. Contact me by calling my office at 765 289-9122, or by visiting my office located in the heart of Muncie at 106 E. Washington St, Muncie, IN 47305 to schedule a future appointment to discuss your personal injury needs! Let’s face it, being involved in a personal injury case can impact every area of your life. For starters there is the fact you may might accumulate significant medical bills that need to be paid soon. And what if the medical bills that begin to pile up were no fault of your own? What if the injuries you sustain make you unable to work for weeks or months - maybe forever? What happens to all of your other financial obligations when you are unable to work? Do your think the other driver's insurance company is going to look out for your best interests?
You don’t have to face these issues alone. Personal Injury law can be a complex and confusing are of law that requires the skills and talents of an experienced lawyer. You need a lawyer you can trust to make sure you receive fair compensation. Let Brian M. Pierce of Muncie, Indiana step into the ring and fight on your behalf for you, your money and your peace of mind when it comes to personal injury law. Contact me by calling my office at 765 289-9122, or by visiting my office located in the heart of Muncie at 106 E. Washington St, Muncie, IN 47305 to schedule a future appointment to discuss your personal injury needs! |
AuthorThis blog is written and managed by the Law Offices of Brian M. Pierce. Any information provided in this blog should not be construed as legal advice. If you have legal questions or concerns please consult with an attorney. Archives
August 2018
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