Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Palm Coast

FAQs

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

  386-313-4911 is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Palm Coast.

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

  You can get a copy of the police report for your case from the Palm Coast District Office at 14 Palm Harbor Village Way, Palm Coast, FL 32137.

• When should you hire an attorney if you have been charged with a crime in Palm Coast?

  It is strongly advised that you seek the assistance of a lawyer as quickly as possible after being accused of a crime in Palm Coast, or if you fear you are under investigation. The sooner an attorney becomes engaged, the better they can develop an effective defense for you or assist you in navigating the process. It also assures that you do not say anything misleading to law enforcement.

• In Palm Coast, who is eligible for appointed counsel or public defender's office assistance? How is eligibility determined?

  Individuals accused of felonies and misdemeanors in Palm Coast may be qualified for an appointed counsel or public defender. When a defendant requests a court-appointed lawyer, the trial judge will typically analyze the defendant's resources to decide if the defendant qualifies for a criminal defense lawyer appointment. Even though the defendant may be forced to return certain attorney expenses following a guilty verdict or conviction, there is usually no fee in the event of a dismissal of the charges.

• How much do criminal defense lawyer fees in Palm Coast cost?

  Criminal defense attorney fees in Palm Coast vary greatly depending on the jurisdiction and the type of charges filed (or expected to be filed) against the accused. It is common for a lawyer to charge a higher retainer on a difficult case than on a simple one. The price of a retainer will generally increase in proportion to the severity of a defendant's criminal charges.

• What types of sentences can be issued to convicted offenders of domestic violence in Palm Coast?

  If convicted of domestic abuse in Palm Coast, the offender must spend a minimum of five days in county jail. The court may also give a sentence of incarceration in a state jail, probation, or community service. Furthermore, state prosecutors can prosecute domestic violence defendants with other crimes mentioned in Florida laws.

• What are some defenses that may be appropriate in a domestic violence case in Palm Coast?

  Depending on the type of violent offense, numerous defenses may apply in a domestic violence case in Palm Coast. In some cases, a domestic violence lawyer can argue for self-defense. The Stand Your Ground statute may apply in certain circumstances. According to Florida Statutes section 776.012, a person may use lethal force and is not required to retreat if he or she honestly believes that lethal force is necessary to prevent death or bodily harm.

• 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.