Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Anchorage

FAQs

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

  3-1-1 is the non-emergency contact number of the local police station in Anchorage.

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

  To obtain a police report in Anchorage, individuals can fill out a citizen records request form and submit it either in person or by mail to APD Records at 4501 Elmore Road, Anchorage, AK 99507. The request form must include the APD case number, date and time of the incident, location of the incident, and the names of the involved parties. APD charges a fee of $6.00 for the first five pages of the report and an additional $0.30 per page for succeeding pages.

  Citizen records request form: https://www.anchoragepolice.com/request-police-records

• What should you do if you are accused of domestic violence in Anchorage?

  It is essential to take domestic violence charges in Anchorage seriously and seek legal advice immediately. Accusations of domestic violence in Alaska can result in severe consequences, including imprisonment, large fines, issuance of restraining orders, and the loss of certain rights, such as the right to own a firearm.

• What factors can influence the severity of a charge for assault in Anchorage?

  Alaska law recognizes three degrees of assault, with the severity of the charge being dependent on factors such as the level of physical harm caused, the use of a weapon, the age of the victim, and previous history with the victim. The charge may be enhanced if the victim suffers additional health issues or death as a result of the assault in Anchorage. The type of charge one faces may vary and can lead to a more severe crime if the factors present warrant it.

• What are the consequences of drug charges in Anchorage?

  If you are convicted of a drug offense in Anchorage, you may face a prison sentence of up to 10 years and a fine of up to $100,000. The severity of the punishment will depend on the quantity and schedule of drugs involved. Additionally, mandatory minimum sentences may apply, which means that judges are required to impose a minimum sentence for certain drug crimes, regardless of the individual circumstances of the case.

• What happens if you refuse a breathalyzer test in Anchorage?

  Under Alaska's "implied consent" law, individuals who are arrested for DUI/OUI are obligated to take a blood or breath test. Refusing the test may result in the suspension of your driver's license, heavy fines, and possible imprisonment in Anchorage. Even if you haven't been arrested, a preliminary breath test might be conducted if you have violated a traffic regulation, been in a collision, or have an open container of alcohol. Penalties for refusing the breathalyzer test include imprisonment, fines of up to $4,000, and the compulsory installation of an ignition interlock device.

• What should you do if you are subject to an unlawful search and seizure in Anchorage?

  If you experience an unlawful search and seizure, it is recommended to contact an Anchorage criminal defense lawyer. The attorney can help you determine if the search and seizure was unauthorized and if the evidence collected can be excluded from trial. Remember that you have constitutional rights that protect you from illegal searches and seizures. If you suspect that your Fourth Amendment rights have been violated, it's important to take action quickly.

• 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.