Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Springdale

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number of Springdale is (479) 751-4542.

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

  You may access reports from Springdale police through this link: http://reports.department-online.com//Search.aspx?Id=b8b33862-9c66-40a8-bb1e-fb6a7b7a8529&Type=traffic. However, reports prior to January 2, 2020, may be obtained by calling the Springdale police department at (51) -346-5760.

• How does a marijuana DWI Charge work in Springdale?

  Springdale follows the laws of Arkansas, where a person can be charged with a DWI from marijuana under the same statute as an alcohol-related DWI. The law stipulates that it is an offense for a person to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance, such as marijuana.

• What signs do Springdale police officers look for to identify marijuana intoxication?

  If a Springdale police officer suspects that a driver is under the influence of marijuana, they may look for signs such as bloodshot eyes, lethargy, lack of coordination, confusion or unfocused behavior, and difficulty remembering things. Additionally, the officer may administer field sobriety tests or request a blood or urine test to confirm the presence of marijuana in the driver's system.

• When are assault crimes considered aggravated?

  In Arkansas, where Springdale is located, assault crimes are considered aggravated when they involve certain elements that make the offense more serious. Examples of these elements include the use of a lethal weapon, causing great bodily harm, or assaulting a particular kind of victim. The particulars of an aggravated assault may differ depending on the jurisdiction, but generally speaking, they include more injury or more purpose than a simple assault.

• What are the consequences of aggravated assault in Springdale?

  Aggravated assault is a Class D felony punishable by up to 6 years in prison and/or $10,000 fines upon conviction. Not only that, but you will deal with a criminal record that could follow you for years. As a result, you will have trouble securing a job, housing, loans, higher education, and more. The social, personal, and professional consequences of an aggravated assault conviction can be devastating.

• What are some feasible strategies for defending yourself in a case of aggravated assault?

  Some of the defenses you can use to refute an aggravated assault case include self-defense, police misconduct, lack of intent, mistaken identity, insanity, and intoxication. If you are a law enforcement officer, you can argue that you are acting within the scope of your duties. However, the effectivity of these defenses still depends on the details of the case. You might want to consult a Springdale criminal defense attorney to help you plan your course of action.

• 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.