Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Killeen

FAQs

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

  The Killeen Police Department has its non-emergency line at 254-501-8830.

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

  The Killeen Police Department Records Unit is reachable via email at kpdrecords@killeentexas.gov. The headquarters is at 3304 Community Blvd, Killeen, TX 76542.

• Is it safe to negotiate with a prosecutor in Killeen on one's own instead of getting a criminal defense lawyer if the charge is just a misdemeanor?

  It is inadvisable to negotiate or accept plea offers from a prosecutor in Killeen, even if the charge is a minor misdemeanor. Any conviction will be marked on one's criminal record regardless of how minor the offense may be. Finding gainful employment will become more challenging as a result.

• How may a criminal defendant in Killeen contest the results of a breath test if stopped for a DWI?

  If a criminal defendant in Killeen was stopped for a breath test, any unfavorable results could be contested by a skilled defense attorney by determining if the machines used were approved for field use, used by a certified officer, duly validated, and properly maintained. The attorney will also raise an issue as to whether or not the testing procedures themselves were followed strictly.

• If a criminal defendant in Killeen has been convicted and served the lawful sentence, what remedies are available in order to improve the odds of getting employed?

  A criminal defendant in Killeen who has been convicted and served the sentence may obtain a defense attorney and file a petition for expungement of records. Texas law applicable in Killeen allows for the destruction of the documents pertaining to one's past offenses, and the benefits extend to acquitted persons whose past litigation still shows up on public files.

• What are the factors that make defending criminal suspects in Killeen with sexual charges difficult?

  Defending a criminal suspect charged with a sexual offense in Killeen is difficult because this class of crimes often involves very few to nonexistent witnesses. The only persons at the scene are the suspects and the victims themselves, and it quickly devolves into a case of one's word versus another. Success and failure could depend on who, between the accuser and accused, seems more credible as opposed to solid testimony.

• Is it possible to get criminal charges against a defendant dismissed in Killeen if the latter has been in prison for a long time without being tried?

  Yes, it is possible for a defendant in Killeen and the State to get a criminal charge dismissed if it has been a long time since the arrest and the trial has not yet begun. The sixth amendment guarantees a right to a speedy trial. The courts will determine if a delay has been too long depending on how much time similar cases take to reach the court if the defendant asserted the right, and what the delays were.

• 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.