Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Sunrise, FL

FAQs

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

  To reach the Sunrise Police Department, call (954) 764-4357 (HELP).

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

  To obtain a police report from the Sunrise Police Department, call the Records Unit first at (954) 746-3500 to check how long it will take and what are the fees. You can then visit in person or mail your request with a self-addressed stamped envelope and a check or money order for the fees.

  Sunrise Police Department Records Unit - 1st Floor 10440 W. Oakland Park Blvd Sunrise, FL 33351

• Can a criminal defense attorney help a loved one in Sunrise who has substance abuse problems?

  Sunrise has in place the Florida Substance Abuse Impairment Act, also known as the Marchman Act, which enables family members to request the court for mandatory treatment of a loved one battling substance abuse. The Marchman Act offers substance-dependent adults and young criminal offenders an option other than incarceration. A criminal defense attorney will handle all of the court-related procedures to help families and their loved ones obtain the aid they need.

• What counts as loitering in Sunrise?

  You can be reported for loitering in Sunrise for doing things such as "sneaking" through a parking lot or purportedly pulling door handles. If you walk behind the premises of businesses when they are closed or through a new neighborhood and be deemed "looking suspicious" by the residents, you could be considered loitering. The charge itself may be vague and usually always results in getting dismissed if an attorney gets involved.

• Are there any punishments for animal abusers in Sunrise?

  Luckily, there is. Pursuant to Florida Statute 828.12, any abuser in Sunrise who inflicts injuries on an animal or caused its death will be charged with either felony or misdemeanor. A felony can lead to 5 years in prison with another 5 years of probation, and a fine of up to $10,000. Persons charged with a misdemeanor can get punished by up to a year in jail, one year of probation, and a fine of up to $5,000.

• Can you go to jail for resisting arrest in Sunrise?

  Yes, and it doesn't matter whether you resisted arrest in Sunrise with or without violence. Resisting arrest with violence can land you a 5-year prison sentence or a 5-year probation and a fine of up to $5,000. Resisting arrest without violence, on the other hand, comes with a penalty of up to one year in jail or one year of probation, and a fine of $1,000.

• What legal repercussions will you be facing if you help a friend escape the law in Sunrise?

  You will be charged as an accessory after the fact in Sunrise. It is a type of derivative crime which means that the penalties you receive will depend on the gravity of the actions of the offender you helped. For example, if your friend commits an armed kidnapping, which is a capital felony in the state, then you have a high likelihood of facing a sentence of up to 30 years.

• 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.