Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in New Britain, CT

FAQs

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

  The local police station in New Britain can be reached for non-emergency matters at (860) 826-3000.

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

  To obtain a copy of the police report pertaining to your case, you may visit the New Britain Police Department Records Bureau located at 10 Chestnut Street, New Britain, CT 06051. You can also request a copy by mail.

• What are the types of criminal offenses in New Britain?

  According to the revised Penal Code of Connecticut, criminal offenses in New Britain are divided into two groups: felonies and misdemeanors. Felonies are further categorized as class A, B, C, D, or E based on the severity of the offense and carry a prison sentence of more than one year. Meanwhile, misdemeanors are categorized as class A, B, C, or D and carry a maximum prison term of 364 days.

• How do you qualify for expungement of a misdemeanor or felony conviction in New Britain?

  You must fulfill specific requirements to qualify for the expungement of a misdemeanor or felony conviction in New Britain. These requirements include not having any pending charges or open cases in any other jurisdiction and not being on probation or parole. Also, at least five years must have elapsed since the most recent felony charge and at least three years since the most recent misdemeanor charge.

• What are the penalties for a second DUI charge in New Britain?

  New Britain imposes several penalties for a second DUI charge, which includes a minimum jail time of 120 days, a 45-day suspension of license, and the installation of an ignition interlock device for three years. Furthermore, a monetary fine ranging from $1,000 to $4,000 is imposed. Offenders are also required to perform 100 hours of community service.

• What are the consequences of probation violation in New Britain?

  The consequences that follow an alleged probation violation in New Britain depend on the type and severity of the offense. Noncompliance with probation terms may lead to severe court-ordered consequences, including lengthening, amending, or expanding the probation's conditions. The court may also choose to revoke the offender's probation and require them to complete the remaining portion of their sentence.

• How does the bail process work in New Britain?

  Immediately following an arrest in New Britain, the police take the person into custody, and a bail hearing or arraignment usually follows. A judge decides whether bail is required and how much to set for the defendant's release during the hearing. Bail is typically not required for first-time offenders facing minor charges. Those who are denied bail must remain in police custody pending trial.

• 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.