Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Honolulu

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency police assistance in Honolulu, call the city’s police department at (808)529-3111.

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

  Police reports in Honolulu are given to walk-ins only. To obtain a copy of your report, visit the Honolulu Police Departmen’s Records and Identification Division at 801 S. Beretania Street Honolulu, Hawaii 96813. The Records Division is open Monday through Friday, and is closed on weekends and State or Federal holidays. 

• Should you talk to the police if you get arrested in Honolulu?

  If you were arrested in Honolulu, it is your right to request to speak to a criminal defense lawyer before making any statements to the police. It is important that you obtain advice from your lawyer before answering the questions of the police. If you don’t have a lawyer, a public defender will be provided for you.

• How much will it cost you to hire a criminal defense lawyer in Honolulu?

  Criminal defense attorneys in Honolulu don’t have a fixed rate, and the costs associated with hiring one highly vary depending on the case at hand. If you are getting a lawyer, there are three types of fees you may be responsible for, namely retainer fees, which may be requested by the lawyer up-front as an advancement; flat fees, which usually depend on your charge; and trial and court fees, which are the miscellaneous fees associated with your case.

• What can you do if law enforcement fails to inform you of your rights upon arrest in Honolulu?

  During an arrest, law enforcement is required to inform you of your rights in what is called a “Miranda warning,” which stipulates your right to remain silent, your right to have an attorney present during police questioning, your right to be protected against improper search and seizure, and your right to a trial before a judge and jury. If law enforcement fails to recite the Miranda, you may have strong grounds for challenging the charges.

• Will you go to jail if you get a DUI in Honolulu?

  If you get a DUI in Honolulu, you won’t necessarily have to serve jail time. If it is your first offense, your license will get suspended for 90 days. However, if you repeat the offense, the penalties and consequences become harsher. Getting more DUIs may result in jail time and hefty fines.

• Do you still need a Honolulu criminal defense lawyer if your case is minor?

  If you are charged in Honolulu, it is important for you to get a lawyer even if you think your offense is minor. This is because even the most minor offenses can have significant implications on your life and future. A conviction of any type of offense can result in you losing your eligibility to receive federal aid and other benefits. Any non-traffic-related offense can bar you from getting into an educational program.

• 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.