Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Springfield, IL

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Springfield, Illinois is (217) 788-8311.

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

  You can get a copy of police reports for cases in Springfield, Illinois by going to City Clerk, Room 106, Municipal Center West during regular office hours or submitting an online request at http://www.springfieldcityclerk.com/FOIA/OnlineRequest.aspx.

• Can you discuss your criminal case in Melbourne, Florida with family members?

  There is no law that prohibits you from discussing your criminal case in Melbourne, Florida with family members; however, it is best that you do not. In the case that your family members are given subpoenas, they will be obliged to share with the court the details you have told them. Any detail that is related to your case is best consulted with lawyers.

• What should you do if polices in Melbourne, Florida are trying to question you?

  If polices in Melbourne, Florida are trying to question you, politely tell them that you do not want to have a discussion with them without the presence of your attorney. The police only want details to build and finish a case as soon as possible. If you talk to them alone, you may end up accidentally saying something that can worsen your standing. Always have your statements checked by your attorney to protect your welfare.

• Can you legally represent yourself in Melbourne, Florida?

  Yes, you can legally represent yourself in Melbourne, Florida. However, understand that getting an attorney to represent you is still the best option, as attorneys are backed by years of education and training in complex legal proceedings. They will most likely have information that you are possibly unaware of that can greatly help your claim have a better resolution.

• How much compensation can you get for a criminal case in Melbourne, Florida?

  The maximum compensation for a criminal case in Melbourne, Florida is $10,000, including all losses or costs. Claims for compensation must be filed no more than one year after the death of the victim or after the crime happened. Deadlines may be extended for up to two years if the Attorney General's Office identifies a good cause.

• Do all criminal cases in Melbourne, Florida go to trial?

  Not all criminal cases in Melbourne, Florida go to trial. In fact, a lot of cases are actually resolved before it even goes to trial. Attorneys work to have charges dropped, dismissed, or reduced. In the situation that charges cannot be dropped, they discuss and work with the State to build an agreement about the 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.