Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Folsom, CA

FAQs

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

  For Folsom local police station non-emergency line, you can directly reach 916-461-6400.

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

  To obtain a copy of a police report related to your case in Folsom, California, you may contact the police department by phone at 916-461-6400 or email for updates at fpdrecords@folsom.ca.us.

• What defenses can you use to reduce your criminal charge in Folsom?

  There are defenses available to minimize your criminal charges in Folsom. Even if a case seems impossible to dismiss, a lawyer can examine it and work to get charges reduced. Common defenses include being in the wrong place at the wrong time, mistaken identity, self-defense, duress, and entrapment. Reducing charges can have fewer legal and long-term consequences for individuals and their families.

• What typical cases does a criminal defense attorney handle in Folsom?

  A criminal defense attorney can handle any criminal case by examining the case for police errors, inadmissible evidence, and holes. These cases usually include drug crimes, DUIs, traffic tickets, assault, and domestic violence. Furthermore, an attorney will take responsibility for developing a defense for each case to attain the best outcome.

• If arrested for a criminal charge in Folsom, do you need to answer questions from the police?

  You must refrain from speaking with the police or investigators if you are arrested for a criminal charge in Folsom. Anything you say can be used as evidence against you. The best action is to deny any questions gently and indicate that you prefer to speak with a lawyer. You can, however, provide basic information about yourself to the police.

• Does your criminal case in Folsom have to go to trial?

  No. Most criminal cases in Folsom are resolved through plea bargaining rather than going to trial. The strength of the case, evidence, testimony, and the judge can determine whether a plea bargain or trial is the best course of action. Although some criminal cases may go to trial, this is not common. Every case is different and must be assessed to determine the best approach.

• What are the different levels of criminal offenses in Folsom?

  In Folsom, criminal charges fall into infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies. The type of charge determines the penalties, such as fines or jail time. If you face misdemeanor or felony charges, you must immediately seek help from a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney in order to proceed with your case and get advice.

• 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.