Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Stamford, CT

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Stamford Police Department is 203-977-4444.

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

  You may get a copy of the police report for incidents related to your case at the Stamford Police Department's Records Division, located at 725 Bedford Street.

• What must you do when you are stopped or under police investigation in Stamford?

  When dealing with Stamford police during a road stop or at your front door, it is important to first ask if you are being detained. If they answer no, you are not obligated to entertain them further. However, if they answer yes, you must refuse to answer any questions without first speaking to your lawyer. Additionally, you must inform the police that you do not consent to any searches of your person or property.

• How is disorderly conduct defined in Stamford?

  Because disorderly conduct encompasses a wide range of behavior, it is one of the most commonly charged crimes in Stamford. These include fighting, threatening, making unreasonable noise, and obstructing road traffic. While the offense is only considered a Class C misdemeanor, it may also result in a permanent criminal record.

• Are disorderly conduct and domestic violence the same in Stamford?

  No. Disorderly conduct in Stamford may become domestic violence if the defendant assaulted, threatened, or unlawfully restrained their current or former partner, children, or roommate. Interfering with a 911 call may also be considered domestic violence. In these cases, there are additional legal proceedings involved, and getting the charges dismissed becomes more difficult.

• Can criminal cases in Stamford be resolved without going to trial?

  One way to resolve criminal cases in Stamford is to admit guilt and accept a plea bargain. For defendants who do not wish to plead guilty, however, there are diversionary programs available for different types of offenses. Examples of these include accelerated rehabilitation, family violence education, alcohol education, and drug education community service programs.

• Is a nolle in Stamford the same as getting criminal charges dismissed?

  While a Stamford case dismissal erases all court and police records of the arrest, a nolle is simply the prosecutor’s decision not to pursue the case due to lack of state funding or evidence of good character. A nolle automatically converts into a case dismissal after 13 months. However, arrest records remain during this time and may pose a problem for the defendant’s employment or immigration status.

• 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.