Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Springfield

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Springfield, Missouri?

  The non-emergency contact number for the Springfield Police Department is (417) 864-1810.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Springfield, Missouri?

  You may get a copy of the police report for incidents related to your case by mailing a request to the Springfield Police Department Clerk's Office at the following address: 130 Pearl Street Springfield, MA 01105 You may also email them at Clerks-Office@SpringfieldPolice.net

• How should you deal with traffic stops in Springfield?

  Whether it is a DWI stop or a routine traffic stop, it is important to first ask Springfield law enforcement officers if you are being detained. If they answer no, you are not obligated to entertain further questioning. However, if they answer yes, you should ask why and for how long you are being detained. You must take note of the officer’s exact responses, as it might be useful information should the stop graduate into an arrest.

• Is driving under the influence of marijuana illegal in Springfield?

  While driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal in Springfield, there are no ready-made tests to measure the presence of the drug in one’s system. Therefore, the basis for the arrest is up to the officer’s personal judgment. An individual could also be arrested if found in possession of marijuana, except if he or she can produce an approved prescription for medical marijuana.

• How does Springfield prosecute first DWI offenses?

  In Springfield, drivers charged with their first offense for driving while intoxicated (DWI) may face a maximum jail sentence of six months, up to $1,000 in fines, and a driver’s license suspension. A DWI is considered a first offense if the driver has no more than one DWI conviction on their record and no other charges within the last five years.

• How are criminal offenses classified in Springfield?

  Going in order of severity, Springfield classifies criminal offenses into infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies. Petty crimes such as traffic violations and speeding are considered infractions, while misdemeanors are more serious crimes that carry a maximum jail sentence of 12 months. Finally, felonies are classified from Class A to Class E. The most serious felonies might result in the death penalty or life imprisonment without parole.

• How can felony convictions in Springfield be overturned?

  One way to overturn a felony conviction in Springfield is through a criminal appeal, which takes the case before a higher court. Another method is to apply for the expungement of the conviction. Finally, the Governor of Missouri also holds the power to pardon felony convictions. Felony offenses in Springfield range from robbery to assault and murder.

• 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.