Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Waterbury

FAQs

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

  Contact the Waterbury Police Department at (203) 574-6911 to report non-emergency situations.

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

  You can obtain a copy of the police report by filing an online request using the following links:

  • City of Waterbury website (https://waterburyct.govqa.us/WEBAPP/_rs/(S(4oqrzli2rp4d2ywu1ijwvnbh))/SupportHome.aspx)
  • BuyCrash (https://buycrash.lexisnexisrisk.com/ui/report/search?state=CT&jurisdiction=WATERBURY%20POLICE%20DEPARTMENT)

• What are the different types of computer crimes in Waterbury?

  The different types of computer crimes in Waterbury are possession and distribution of child pornography, identity theft, and internet solicitation of minors. Computer crime is a new area of criminal law where state and federal lawmakers continuously create new laws to keep up with modern technology and address unique issues.

• What consequences a juvenile offender in Waterbury may be facing if he or she is conditionally discharged or placed on probation?

  If a juvenile offender in Waterbury is placed on supervised release, he or she is required to obey curfews, perform community service, submit regular drug tests, and make restitution to their victims. The offender also needs to wear an electronic monitoring device to track their actions and attend treatment or counseling sessions.

• Are you required to talk to a police officer about a crime in Waterbury?

  It depends on the situation. If you were a witness to a crime in Waterbury, you could talk to the police and answer their questions. But if you are a possible target of a criminal investigation, you better be on the side of caution. Do not talk to them and consult with a lawyer first.

• What are the consequences of violating probation in Waterbury?

  If you fail to meet one or more conditions of your probation in Waterbury, you will be issued an arrest warrant. The court may issue additional requirements for your probation period, such as community service, rehabilitation, jail time or imprisonment, fines, and restitution. You are also required to attend boot camps or any other programs to correct your behavior.

• Does a pardon erase a criminal record in Waterbury?

  Yes. An absolute pardon can remove your criminal record in Waterbury. If you are convicted of a misdemeanor, you must wait three years for your criminal record to be cleared. On the other hand, for felony cases, you must wait five years from the date of your conviction.

• 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.