Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Jonesboro, AR

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Jonesboro Police Department is 870-935-5551.

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

  You may get a copy of the police report for incidents related to your case at the Jonesboro Police Department, located at 1001 South Caraway Road. You may also request a report online at https://jonesboropolice.com/foia

• What are the commonly reported crimes in Jonesboro?

  According to data culled from local law enforcement agencies, the most commonly reported crime in Jonesboro is theft, with a rate of 18.48 per 1,000 residents. Other common crimes in the metro include vandalism, burglary, and assault. In fact, Jonesboro has an overall crime rate of 39 per 1,000 residents, which is higher than that of the average U.S. city.

• How are crimes in Jonesboro categorized?

  Crimes in Jonesboro are classified into either misdemeanor or felony offenses, with the latter carrying more severe punishments. The same crime can be classified into either category, depending on aggravating factors involved. For example, theft is considered a misdemeanor when the value of the items stolen is less than $1,000. However, it graduates into a felony offense if the value stolen is between $1,000 and $5,000 or if there was a series of three or more thefts within a three-day period.

• Which controlled substances are illegal in Jonesboro?

  Examples of controlled substances that are illegal in Jonesboro include marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamines, heroin, ecstasy, and LSD. The possession of drug paraphernalia, such as items used to inject, inhale, or bring controlled substances into the body, is also illegal. Additionally, possessing drug paraphernalia used to manufacture controlled substances is typically considered a Class D felony.

• What are the rights of Jonesboro residents during an arrest?

  During an arrest, individuals in Jonesboro have the right to remain silent and refuse questions until they have an attorney present. They also have the right to refuse a search of their person or property without a warrant. The violation of one’s constitutional rights during an arrest can be used against the prosecution in court.

• What are possible defenses against assault charges in Jonesboro?

  One common defense against assault charges in Jonesboro is self-defense. In order to assert that the defendant was acting in self-defense, it must be proven that he or she was under threat of unlawful force and there were no reasonable means to escape the situation safely. Another possible defense is that the defendant was acting in defense of others.

• 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.