Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Lauderhill

FAQs

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

  The Lauderhill Police Department receives non-emergency calls at 954-764-HELP (4357).

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

  The Lauderhill Police Department Records Department is reachable at 954-497-4700 and the office is at 6279 West Oakland Park Blvd. Lauderhill, FL 33313.

• How many days after an arrest must a criminal defendant in Lauderhill wait before claiming that the right to a speedy trial has been violated?

  A criminal defendant must follow the Florida law applied in Lauderhill and claim that the right to a speedy trial has been denied once 90 days have passed since an arrest for a misdemeanor, and 175 days from being taken into custody if the incident is a felony. A defense attorney may lower these periods by formally demanding a speedy trial in writing.

• What qualifications should criminal defendants in Lauderhill seek in an attorney?

  Criminal defendants in Lauderhill and the state must look for an attorney who hails from a criminal justice background. Past work in the prosecution sector is ideal since it shows familiarity with government tactics. Experience as a public defender is also desirable since it implies the ability to navigate heavy workloads.

• How soon must a criminal defendant in Lauderhill secure the services of a lawyer?

  A criminal defendant in Lauderhill must secure a lawyer's services as soon as there has been an arrest or formal charge. An attorney will go through the steps taken to place a suspect in custody and point out any procedural and substantive errors that could lead to an early release. Legal counsel can also scrutinize evidence-gathering records early on, blocking the admission of improperly obtained pieces.

• Can a criminal defendant be charged with resisting arrest in Lauderhill if there is a firm refusal to speak?

  No, a criminal defendant in Lauderhill cannot be considered as resisting arrest for firmly refusing to speak. Individuals are permitted to avoid incriminating themselves through personal testimony, and could even be in hot water for providing information that turns out to be false. Politely keeping one's silence is fine as long as no violence is committed by the suspect.

• What should a criminal defendant in Lauderhill do when unable to afford a lawyer?

  A defendant in Lauderhill who cannot afford a criminal defense lawyer must refrain from resorting to self-representation and seek the services of a public defender. This entails an application process that begins with the submission of a formal application for criminal indigent status to the clerk of court. This procedure may be started online through email.

• 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.