Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Mobile, AL

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Mobile Police Department is 251-208-7211.

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

  You can get a copy of the police report for incidents related to your case by going to the Mobile Police Department Records at 2460 Government Blvd Mobile, AL 36606. You can obtain it in person or through the mail. Each report is $15. You can also contact the Records Unit by dialing 251-2080-1991.

• What are your rights if you are the subject of a criminal investigation in Mobile?

  When you are being investigated or charged with a crime in Mobile, you must first remember that you have the right to remain silent. According to the Sixth Amendment of the US Constitution, you also have the right to hire a lawyer to help you make a great defense for your case.

• What are the factors that can influence theft cases in Mobile?

  Various factors can influence whether you will be charged with a misdemeanor or felony for your theft case in Mobile. A theft occurs when you knowingly possess, obtain, or use deception to gain control of something that does not legally belong to you, according to the Alabama Criminal Code. The type or the total value of the property involved, the time when you are charged, the location of the property, and the method of illegally obtaining the property all impact your case.

• Can you suppress evidence to be presented by the prosecution in your criminal case in Mobile?

  Yes. You can suppress the prosecutor's evidence in your criminal case in Mobile. One method is to demonstrate that the evidence was obtained through illegal means. Another approach is to question the credibility of the evidence if the police tainted it due to poor gathering and maintenance practices. The third way is to request that a witness be barred from testifying against you if they fail to appear at scheduled depositions.

• How do you have your case expunged in Mobile?

  The factors for expungement in Mobile are determined by the type of charge and the outcome of your case. If you were found not guilty, the charge was dismissed with prejudice, or a grand jury decided the charge should not be billed, you can file a petition to have your case expunged. The Redeemer Act, passed by the Mobile City Council, allows people convicted of certain nonviolent felonies and misdemeanors to have their records sealed, even if they have been pardoned for a serious offense.

• What are the possible penalties for crimes involving drug possession in Mobile?

  The penalties for drug possession cases in Mobile vary depending on the defendant's age, if this is a first offense, and the type of drug involved. Possible penalties include at least a year in prison and fines of up to $15,000. You must hire a criminal defense attorney to deal with drug possession charges.

• 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.