CRIMINAL DEFENSE
DEFEND YOUR RIGHTS
Hire an attorney to fight potential consequences that could affect your life.
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:
- Driving Under the Influence/ DUI
- Driving While Impaired/ DWI
- Minor in Possession of Alchohol
- Public Intoxication/ Public Drunk
- Fake ID/ False ID
- Juvenile Crimes and Youth Court
- Expungement
- Assault and Battery
- Simple Assault
- Vandalism
- Trespassing
- Burglary
- Domestic Violence
- Probation Violation
- Shoplifting
- Simple Possession and Paraphernalia
- Drug Crimes
- Drug Possession/Drug Paraphernalia
- Possession of marijuana
- Traffic Violations
- Speeding Tickets
F.A.Q.
What happens when I get arrested?
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?
• 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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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
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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