Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Washington DC

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Washington DC?

  The non-emergency contact number for the Police Department is (202) 727-9099.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Washington DC?

  You can get a copy of the incident or offense report by sending an email request to mpd.public-docs@dc.gov or a mail with a self-addressed, stamped envelope to:

  Metropolitan Police Department Public Documents Section ATTN: Accident/Incident Reports 300 Indiana Avenue NW, Room 3075 Washington, DC 20001

  You should provide information, including your full name, the incident date, location, and time, and the six-digit report number or CCN. You can also contact (202) 727-4357 for further inquiries.

• What does being on probation mean in Washington DC?

  Probation is an alternative to jail time, wherein a judge in Washington DC sets several conditions that the offender must comply with. If a person was found guilty from of a jury verdict or if that person entered a guilty plea, the judge could sentence probation, jail time, or combination of both. Some of the probation conditions include:

  • not getting re-arrested
  • undergoing alcohol or drug tests and treatment
  • attending anger management classes
  • rendering community service
  • completing a domestic violence intervention program

• Do you have a choice when a police officer in Washington DC wants to search you, your home, or your car?

  In Washington DC, you do not have a choice if the police officer holds a search warrant for you, your home, or your car. Otherwise, the search will be presumed illegal. If a police officer asks if your car can be searched during a traffic stop, you are not required to consent. They can still proceed with the search, but you can politely say that they don't have your permission. This will give your lawyer an opportunity to contest the legality of the search at a later time.

• Can you possess a firearm in Washington DC if you received civil protection order from a different state?

  No, it is considered a felony to possess a firearm in Washington DC if a civil protection order (CPO) was obtained against you, even if it is from a different state. You could face a sentence of two to 10 years in prison or a fine of no more than $25,000 if you are convicted to have possessed a firearm after a CPO has been issued against you.

• What is the statute of limitations for criminal offenses in Washington DC?

  In Washington DC, the statute of limitations varies, depending on the severity of the criminal offense. The legislature grants longer periods of time for more serious crimes. For example, the deadline for felonies is generally six years while there is no time limit for murder in first or second degree. The statute of limitations expires when an indictment, complaint, or information is filed.

• What are the most common crimes reported in Washington DC?

  According to the Metropolitan Police Department's 2022 Crime Data, a total of 27,302 offenses were reflected in their records management system. This total comprises the following: 3,830 Violent Crimes

  • Robbery (2,082)
  • Assault with a dangerous weapon (1,387)
  • Homicide (203)
  • Sex abuse (158) 23,472 Property Crimes
  • Theft (10,832)
  • Theft from auto (7,825)
  • Motor vehicle theft (3,761)
  • Burglary (1,050)
  • Arson (4)

• What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

  Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circumstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.

• How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?

  Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

  Misdemeanors

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Vandalism
  • Reckless driving

  Felonies

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault
  • Specific types of fraud
  • Possession of certain types of drugs

• What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?

  The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circumstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.

• What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.

• Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.

• Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

  Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circumstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.