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CRIMINAL DEFENSE

Mississippi and Tennessee Criminal Defense Attorney. Defending clients facing criminal charges and other violations of the law.
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DEFEND YOUR RIGHTS

Hire an attorney to fight potential consequences that could affect your life.

If you or a family member has never been arrested, encountering the justice system as a defendant in Mississippi or Tennessee can be frightening and confusing. Depending on the severity of your charges, you may be facing consequences such as jail time, curtailment of privileges such as driving, or academic suspension or expulsion.

Hiring a lawyer with criminal defense experience as early in the arrest and court process as possible can accelerate the construction of a case that defends your due process rights. We will closely examine the prosecution’s case and look for opportunities to provide an optimal outcome for you, such as dropped charges, an acquittal, a plea agreement or a reduced sentence.

Our experience includes representing clients on criminal charges including:

 

F.A.Q.

As part of our representation, we will explain each phase of the court process so that you can be fully aware of how your case is moving forward.
What happens when I get arrested?
When you are arrested, the officers will take you to the police station or detention center, where you will be booked. This includes taking your fingerprints, taking a mugshot, and completing other paperwork. You will be held in the police custody generally up to 48 hours, pending a hearing.

When you are in custody, you have the right to speak to an attorney. You also have the right to refuse to answer questions from the police at any point (even prior to the arrest) without your attorney present. A hearing will be held to determine whether you can be released and what, if any, bond will be.

How does bail work?
After an arrest, the judge will set the amount of bail and terms necessary to obtain release from jail. The judge may set bail under one of the following options:

Release on Own Recognizance: You are released from jail after signing a document saying you promise to return to court and follow any terms the Court has issued.

Personal Bond: You are released after signing a bond that states you are liable for criminal and civil penalties if you do not return to court.

Bail Set with Terms of Release: You are released by posting bail as set by the Court.

Denial of Bail: If you are considered a flight risk or a risk to society, you may not be released or granted a bail/bond.

What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?
Compared to a felony, a misdemeanor is a lesser offense. The maximum punishment for a misdemeanor is a year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Should you have to serve jail time, it would be in a city or county jail, not in the state penitentiary.

With a felony conviction, you lose constitutional rights including your right to vote and to carry a gun, as well as the ability to hold some professional licenses. With a misdemeanor conviction, you will keep those rights. It may also be possible to expunge a misdemeanor charge from your record, which is not the case with felony convictions.

Do I need a lawyer?
If you want to prevent a misdemeanor crime from having a negative impact on your life, your best move is to hire a lawyer to defend you. Having even misdemeanor criminal charges on your record can follow you in ways you may not expect. In addition, court systems and processes can be confusing and opaque; it can be difficult to understand what’s happening without a lawyer by your side to protect your rights.

A criminal defense lawyer will analyze your case to find the best possible defense. He or she will explain the offenses you are being charged with and the elements of the law prosecutors would have to prove in order to convict you. Then your lawyer will be your advocate through all court proceedings, working to resolve your case with the best possible outcome for you.

How do I find an attorney?
Whatever legal matter you are facing, there is much at stake in whom you choose to have as your attorney. You should always meet with a lawyer before making a final choice about hiring him or her. When you meet, consider whether the attorney is someone you can trust and feel confident in. It should be someone with whom you feel comfortable discussing very private matters about your case.

Consider, too, whether the attorney appears confident — the way you would want someone to represent you in court. The attorney should have knowledge about the offenses you are charged with and seem eager to fight on your behalf.

What happens when I go to court?
Your first court appearance is often the arraignment where you will enter a plea to the charges against you. You will go before the judge, who will read the criminal complaint you are facing and will ask you to enter a plea. If there is no probable cause for the arrest, it is possible the charges will be dropped against you at this hearing.

The next phase is the trial process. If you retain a criminal defense attorney or are appointed a public defender, your attorney will be present with you.

 

What is an arraignment?
The arraignment is the first phase of the criminal procedure. You will appear in court before the judge, who will formally read the copy of the criminal complaint filed against you. The complaint details the criminal charges you are alleged to have committed.

You will then be asked if you have a criminal defense attorney or elect to have a public defender appointed. Usually, the next court date is also set. If you are facing a misdemeanor charge, your attorney can appear before the court on your behalf.

What happens after charges are filed?
The case progresses through a series of hearings — to hear motions and to resolve other pre-trial issues, and possibly to enter a plea bargain. Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence from coming into the proceedings and being used against you, such as evidence obtained through an illegal search, or improper interrogation by the police.

A Motion in Limine can be held, in which the Court will make a ruling on the admissibility or inadmissibility of evidence (for example, to suppress any prior bad acts by the defendant from being used against him or her in the current trial). A Motion to Quash can be filed, challenging the probable cause of the criminal charges. A Motion to Dismiss can be filed, asking the Court to dismiss the charges for failure to meet the elements of law necessary for conviction. A Motion for Change in Venue can also be addressed, asking the Court to change the jurisdiction of the Court for various reasons.

Do I need an attorney even if I plead guilty?
Absolutely. Criminal defense attorneys have experience negotiating plea agreements and will negotiate on your behalf. The prosecutor is the state’s attorney; he or she is not working for you and does not offer plea agreements just to help you.

Your attorney will guide you through the process of plea bargaining and advise you about the best time to accept a plea agreement. In many cases, it is better not to accept a plea bargain early in the criminal-justice process. By holding off on a plea agreement until there has been enough time to review the evidence, analyze the facts, gather witness statements and review the police report, your attorney may uncover potential defenses that will give you a better advantage in plea bargaining.

HIRING A CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER

Hiring a lawyer with criminal defense experience as early in the arrest and court process as possible can accelerate the construction of a case that defends your due process rights.

We will closely examine the prosecution’s case and look for opportunities to provide an optimal outcome for you, such as dropped charges, an acquittal, a plea agreement or a reduced sentence.

ASK AMY

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CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

dui charges

"I received a D.U.I. other in Lee County while on probation which Amy fought against and was able to get dismissed on a technicality. Then within three months I again was charged with a subsequent offense in Pontotoc County and was charged with D.U.I. and Amy was also successful in getting that dismissed.

It really does matter which attorney you select, and I couldn’t recommend a better one than Amy."

–M.K

multiple traffic violations

"Attorney Amy Pietrowski was responsive and quick to take appropriate action. She provided me with wise counsel and good guidance. I received a speeding ticket, a tint violation, and no insurance and live out of state. Amy was able to get all the offenses dismissed and my appearance in court wasn't even required. Highly recommend her! Great job!!!!"

–JB/ Arkansas

DUI

“Amy was very attentive to my feeling uncomfortable as this was my first DUI offense. She took my call and texts promptly and did not drag my case out. She was fantastic. I highly recommend her.”

–Anonymous Avvo Review

Custody case

“Amy is not only a caring and professional attorney, but she is dedicated and will bring results to your case. I cant thank her enough for getting me custody of my little girl. Will continue to use this attorney for any future needs. I highly recommend for anyone that needs a good attorney that will fight for their case.”

– E.R

traffic violation

“Ms. Pietrowski was so helpful in handling a traffic case for my son. He was visiting from out-of-state and received a traffic citation. Amy answered her call and was wonderful to work with. She addressed all of our questions and concerns and helped us through the stress of dealing with an issue from several states away. I cannot recommend her and her firm enough. Awesome!"

– RJ

professional, caring and knowledgeable

"Attorney Pietrowski is one of the shining examples of professional, caring and knowledgeable attorneys. She listened, advocated and kept me informed throughout the proceedings of my case. I am very pleased with the quality, responsiveness and extensive legal expertise of Attorney Amy Pietrowski."

–CR/ Memphis TN

cdl violation

"Attorney Pietrowski served my legal needs efficiently. She personally emailed and called me when there were any changes or updates with my case. When it came time for trail, Attorney Pietrowski was well prepared and had all my citations dismissed, no longer jeopardizing my Bus Driver Licensing."

–JD/Memphis TN

cdl violation

"I was ticketed during the scope of my employment and with the help from Attorney Pietrowski she was able to have all my charges dismissed resolving any potential employment issues."

–RR, LA

speeding violation

"My speeding violation was dismissed as a result of Attorney Pietrowski knowledge of procedural techniques. I highly recommend Pietrowski Law Practice for your legal needs!"

–LK, GA

youth court

"My child was involved in an altercation in school and she was facing a DeSoto County Youth Court charge of a Delinquent Child or Child in Need of Supervision with an additional charge of simple assault. We retained attorney Amy Pietrowski and she was quick to get involved and with her legal representation was able to get our case dismissed. We had never been involved with the Youth Court and with Amy's assistance we had a clear understanding of what to expect each step of the way. You can't go wrong when you retain Amy!"

–JB/Mississippi

public drunk

"I was charged with Public Drunk and Failure to Obey the Lawful Command of a Police Officer in Lafayette County, Mississippi. Amy worked very hard on my behalf and was able to get the Failure to Obey dismissed and the Public Drunk charge off my record as well through her diligence. As a result, I can move forward with my life knowing these offenses are not part of my permanent record as I graduate from college."

–Z.L.

dui and other traffic violations

"I have never been in trouble before and was facing multiple traffic offenses and criminal charges. I was charged with a D.U.I. far above the legal limit, no insurance, a seatbelt violation, careless driving, and open container in Prentiss County. I knew I faced a lot of jail time and Amy was able to fight for me and get all the charges dismissed but the D.U.I. charge (which despite the other alcohol offenses I was still offered probation); keeping it off my permanent record and me out of jail. I was so thankful to have her on my side!"

–M.S.

possession of marijuana, alcohol, no insurance

"I am highly regarded in my local community and had made several very poor choices and was pulled over while driving and charged with possession of marijuana in a motor vehicle, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of alcohol, and no insurance. I didn’t know where to turn but liked that Amy had been a United States Marine soldier and trusted her to defend me. Amy went to court and was able to fight and defend my case and based on the law argued - all the charges were dismissed!"

–W.E.

speeding ticket

I was charged with speeding in Oxford, Lafayette County and Amy was able to get this dismissed. I was extremely happy with her representation and her attentiveness to my phone calls concerning my legal defense.

– J.D.

following too closely violation

"I was charged with following too closely in Tippah County, Mississippi, and I live out of state. My attorney fought for me and I wasn’t required to actually appear in court, saving me both time and money. Amy was able to get the charge dismissed keeping it off my driving record and my insurance didn’t change as a result of her defending me! Very thankful for the outcome."

–C.R.

visitation

"I am a young father who couldn’t afford an attorney to fight for custody. Amy was able to negotiate on my behalf my visitation rights so I could see my son without a huge expense, or courtroom drama. This attorney was very talented in reaching an agreement and keeping this from escalating into a custody battle."

–M.P.

speeding, careless driving and other traffic violations

"I was charged with a speeding ticket, no insurance, careless driving, reckless driving, I also hold a Commercial Driver’s License. I live in Florida and by retaining Amy as my attorney I did not have to drive back to appear in Court. Amy was able to keep the offenses off my record enabling me to keep my CDL and my job. There is no better attorney than Amy Pietrowski."

–F.C.

speeding ticket & cdl

"I was charged with speeding and I live out of state and drive a school bus. I could not afford to lose my job, nor come back to court. I hired Amy and she successfully got the speeding ticket dismissed. I highly recommend retaining her as your attorney."

–L.K.

child custody

"I hired Amy to modify a child custody order granting me sole custody of my child due to the conduct of the father. I thought we would have a long drawn out custody battle but Amy was successful in getting the case resolved swiftly while remaining very professional and diligent in ensuring the outcome would be to the best interest of my child. I would highly recommend her to anyone facing the same situation."

–J.S.

emergency custody

"My child's mother had allowed my son to be in a non-safe environment and I needed emergency custody. Amy was successful in obtaining emergency custody and getting my son out of a very harmful situation and in court within a day. I have maintained sole custody of my son and mother has restricted and supervised visitation permantly until she can prove to the court she has made the necessary improvements. I was extremely satisfied with the passion Amy displayed for me and my child! You need to hire this attorney!"

–D.B.

speeding violation

"My speeding violation was dismissed as a result of Attorney Pietrowski's knowledge of procedural law. I highly recommend Pietrowski Law Practice for your legal needs! Thanks - excellent job!!
– "L.K."

public drunk

"I was charged with Public Drunk in Lafayette County. I was a student at the time and had never been in any trouble before. Amy was knowledgeable and always available to meet with me to discuss any questions or concerns I had along the way.

With her skill, Amy was able to keep this off my record so I could move forward after graduation and gain employment in a career where this offense would not be conducive to maintaining employment - with both the education and career I have worked hard to obtain.

Trust Amy with your legal problems, she truly cares."

–Z.B. | Lafayette County, MS

DUI Lafayette County

Amy Pietrowski represented me in my criminal matter involving my DUI in Lafayette County. It was my first and I was terrified of the process and what would happen to me. Amy was easily available to answer my questions, and always returned my phone calls or correspondence. I felt like she truly cared.

She fought hard for me and explained what would occur in court and was able to resolve my matter quickly and keep it off my record.

I would highly recommend her as your DUI attorney!!

– L.R. | Lafayette County

DUI | No Insurance | Reckless Driving

"She was diligent and fought hard for me. She was able to keep all these charges off my record."
– J.A.

Lee County Court | Shoplifting

"I was charged with shoplifting at the city court and I hired Amy to appeal my case in the higher court. She met with me and heard all the facts and then was able to develop a strategy and defend my case and get it dismissed!"
– J.C.

Shelby County Court | Felony Assault

"I was charged with felony assault and Amy got it lowered to a misdemeanor assault and then defended me and kept it off my record."

–L.T.

Monroe County Justice Court | Speeding Violation

“I was charged with speeding violation and Amy got it dismissed.”

–"D.W."

Bolivar County Justice Court | Speeding Violation, Insurance

“My charge was no insurance, speeding 30 mph over the limit and Amy Pietrowski was successful in keeping it off my record.”

–P.D.

Lafayette County City Court | DUI

“I was charged with a DUI and was very satisfied with Amy's defense and her ability to get it dismissed.”

–R.L.

Tate County Justice Court | Stalking Charge

“My former girlfriend charged me with stalking and it didn't appear I was going to stay out of jail. Amy researched the caselaw and was able to successfully defend my case and get it dismissed.”

–"T.E.D."

Lee County Justice Court | DUI, No Insurance, Traffic Violations

“I was charged with a DUI, No Insurance, and Failure to Keep in Proper Lane. It didn't look like good for me so I hired Amy and she was won a dismissal. Highly recommend her!”

–"J.A."

Olive Branch Municipal Court | CDL Violation

“I received a ticket for Following a Non-Truck route and am a C.D.L. Driver. This ticket meant I was going to lose my job. Amy prepared my legal defense and we won a not-guilty verdict!”

–"W.F."

Desoto County Southaven Justice Court | Second Offense DUI

“I had a second offense DUI charge and Amy was able to get it dismissed.”

–"M.D."

Olive Branch Municipal Court | CDL Traffic Violation

Attorney Amy Pietrowski represented my violation of Disobeying a Traffic Control Device and I hold a CDL license and would have lost my job. She successfully tried the case and it was dismissed.

–"J.T."

Winston County, MS | CDL and DUI

“Amy Pietrowski tried my DUI case, cross examined the officer revealing his lack of evidence and successfully allowed me to keep my CDL license and won the case with a not guilty verdict from the judge.”

–“J.A.”

Dedicated, real and honest

"Amy is not only a great attorney, she is also a wonderful person. Dedicated doesn't even scratch the surface of this tough-love lawyer. She is always quick to respond when you need something and communicates effectively when there are updates with your case. She shows what I feel is sincere empathy, but also keeps it real and honest. I appreciate her professional style and integrity- it works!"

-W.E.

Contact Us

Southaven

230 Goodman Road East
Building 2, Suite 100
Southaven, MS 38671

Oxford
By appointment

(662) 372-1622

DUI, DWI | Criminal Defense | Family Lawyer

Licensed in Mississippi and Tennessee

© Pietrowski Law Practice