Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Fort Wayne, IN

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Fort Wayne, Indiana?

  The non-emergency contact number of the Fort Wayne Police Department Headquarters is 260-427-1222.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Fort Wayne, Indiana?

  To obtain police reports, one can visit the Police Desk and pay $0.10 per page. It is necessary to personally appear and present a valid ID to acquire the report. Alternatively, one can obtain Public Access request forms, which are handled by the office's supervisor. For inquiries, call 260-427-1222 or 260-427-1340.

• What is the proper response if law enforcement officials come to your door in Fort Wayne?

  When law enforcement comes to your door in Fort Wayne, it is important to know your rights and protect them. You should ask to see the warrant if officers want to come inside and verify that it states your name and address. Exercise your right to remain silent and only give your name if asked. It is advisable to record the interaction and take notes that you can use as evidence, if necessary. By staying calm and knowledgeable, you can protect your rights and avoid potential issues.

• Can a conviction for domestic violence impact your right to bear arms in Fort Wayne?

  Yes. In the event that you are found guilty of a domestic violence-related offense, both federal and state laws can revoke your Second Amendment Right to Bear Arms. If you are accused of such an offense in Fort Wayne, it is vital to seek out the services of a criminal defense attorney for legal counsel and guidance. If your rights have been curtailed under this provision, a lawyer may be able to help you reinstate those rights.

• What happens after you are arrested in Fort Wayne?

  After being arrested in Fort Wayne, you will be taken to jail for booking, where you will be identified with a mugshot and fingerprints. The police may ask for permission to search your property, but you have the right to refuse consent. It's important to exercise your right to remain silent and speak with a Fort Wayne criminal defense lawyer before saying or doing anything that can be used against you.

• What are the requirements to clear criminal records in Fort Wayne?

  To be eligible for expungement or to clear criminal records in Fort Wayne, the crime committed must not be a violent felony, and the proper amount of time must have passed since the conviction. The time period varies depending on the charge, but it is typically five years for misdemeanors and eight to 10 years for felonies. The petitioner must not have had a different conviction expunged previously, and they must not have gotten into any further legal trouble between the date of their conviction and their court petitioning.

• What are the benefits of expunging your criminal record in Fort Wayne?

  The benefits of expunging a criminal record include more chances of obtaining a job, housing, loans, and a better quality of life. Once your record has been expunged in Fort Wayne, you can legally deny that a criminal record ever existed. By having a clean record, you may be better positioned to pursue your goals and aspirations without the burden of past charges.

• 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.