Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Boynton Beach

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Boynton Beach, Florida?

  Citizens can reach the Boynton Beach Police Department's non-emergency hotline at (561) 732-8116.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Boynton Beach, Florida?

  In the first 60 days after an accident, only those mentioned in the report will be allowed to request a copy. Individuals may obtain a copy of the record in person at the Boynton Beach Police Department office at 2100 High Ridge Road or online at www.crashdocs.org. After 60 days, the report will be made available to the public by requesting a copy in person to the office, online, or via mail.

• What are the common criminal charges in Boynton Beach?

  Common crimes charged in Boynton Beach legal systems include violent and felony-related transgressions like burglary, assault, homicide, domestic abuse, aggravated harassment, cyber-attacks, and sexual crimes. The lawyers in the metro also deal with negligent driving cases, alcohol and drug offenses, unlawful firearms and dangerous weapons possession, white-collar related crimes, and probation violations.

• How can a criminal defense attorney in Boynton Beach help mitigate your DUI charge?

  When defending clients in Boynton Beach who have been charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, one of the most common criminal defenses utilized by an attorney to mitigate the client's legal consequences is contesting that the breathalyzer test showed inaccurate results. Potential penalties that the jury can impose include monetary fines, driver's license suspension, community service, DUI permanent criminal record, probation, and jail time.

• What can you expect in a community control sentence in a criminal case in Boynton Beach?

  Under a community control sentence in Boynton Beach, the offender is under an intense supervision program that restricts them from visiting other locations aside from predetermined places, such as their homes, workplaces, schools, or hospitals, unless permitted by the supervising probation officer. The offender is also financially accountable for court and supervision fees, legal fines, and victim reinstitution.

• What are your rights while you are under a criminal investigation in Boynton Beach?

  In a criminal case investigation in Boynton Beach, a suspect may use their privilege against self-incrimination under the Fifth Amendment by refusing to answer questions from law enforcement. Also, a suspect may assert their Fourth Amendment protections against unlawful search and seizure by arguing that there must be a reasonable cause and a warrant granted to conduct such a search or seizure.

• How can you be penalized for sending written threats to someone in Boynton Beach?

  According to Florida statute 836.10, enforced by the city of Boynton Beach, anybody who writes and sends a message threatening to harm or injure a person and their close relatives is guilty of a second-degree felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison. Harassment leading to "reasonable fear" of harm or death is also a form of threat considered a third-degree crime, punishable by up to five years in prison.

• 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.