Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Bridgeport, CT

FAQs

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

  Contact 203-576-7671 to report non-emergencies to the local police station in Bridgeport.

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

  To obtain a police report for incidents in Bridgeport, one can contact their attorney or the public defender's office. The report is usually available within two days of the occurrence. For updates, contact the Records Division at 203-581-5270. The report number should be provided, which starts with the year, month, day, and incident number. Example: March 12, 2022, Incident number 100 Report number: 220312100

• What are the most prevalent crimes in Bridgeport?

  Based on the 2022 government statistics, motor vehicle theft and robbery are the most prevalent crimes in Bridgeport. Out of the 1,729 reported crimes for that year, there were 576 cases of vehicular theft and 283 incidents of robbery. The report also includes other crimes like a home invasion, rape, and murder. Additionally, the city highlights that more than 50 homicides occurred in the same year, with the Hollow and East Side neighborhoods experiencing the most incidents.

• When can a person be arrested for burglary in Bridgeport?

  Individuals who committed burglary in Bridgeport can be arrested when they entered a property where someone is living with the intention to commit a crime. They may also face charges if they invaded a home with another person, attempted to assault the resident, and were armed with a deadly weapon during the incident. Burglary is considered a felony and is punishable by a maximum of five years of imprisonment and up to a $5,000 fine.

• What are the consequences for a student who engages in cyberbullying in Bridgeport?

  Under state laws, individuals found guilty of cyberbullying in Bridgeport may face a fine of up to $500 and a maximum of three months in jail. In addition, students who engage in cyberbullying may also face disciplinary action from the school administration. It's worth noting that students who witness someone being bullied, whether offline or online, can anonymously report such acts.

• How can a person with a first DUI offense get their license back?

  To regain a license after a first DUI offense, the driver needs to fulfill certain requirements, which include a one-year suspension from the date of suspension or until the driver turns 18 if they were a minor at the time of the arrest. Additionally, people must pay $125 to the DMV and complete an approved Substance Abuse Treatment Program.

• How can a person clear their criminal record in Bridgeport?

  In Bridgeport, a person can clear their criminal record through the expungement process. Individuals must complete a Criminal History Request for a pardon form, pay the application fee, and provide a fingerprint card to the State Police Bureau of Identification. Those with a recent conviction or probation period must also submit a police report and discharge letter. Additionally, applicants should include additional documents like driver's licenses, resumes, certificates, or letters for consideration in their expungement case.

• 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.