Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Lafayette, IN

FAQs

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

  Contact 765-807-1200 to report non-emergency incidents in Lafayette.

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

  Get a copy of the police report related to an incident in Lafayette at the Records Department located at 20 N 6th Street. The office is open from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. Access the request form here: https://www.lafayette.in.gov/DocumentCenter/View/151/Production-of-Document-Request-Form-PDF?bidId=

• What are the penalties for drug possession in Lafayette?

  Drug possession charges in Lafayette can result in imprisonment and a fine of up to $10,000. People who are convicted of three separate drug offenses are categorized as habitual substance offenders and may receive a sentence of 3 to 8 years of prison time. Driver's license suspension is also possible in certain situations. Additionally, charges can be elevated for those accused of possessing and distributing large amounts of illegal substance and dealing near a school or public park.

• Are people charged with a felony in Lafayette still entitled to vote?

  Individuals with a felony conviction in Lafayette can still exercise their right to vote as long as they are registered and out of prison. However, if their sentencing order specifies that their right to vote has been revoked, they may not be eligible. Additionally, voting eligibility may differ depending on the state, and a conviction in Indiana may impact one's ability to vote in another state.

• Is it required to talk to the police during an investigation?

  If someone is being investigated, they don't have to talk to the police if they don't want to. They can choose to stay silent and not say anything that could make them look guilty. It's a good idea to talk to a lawyer before talking to the police, so they can make sure their rights are being respected.

• What factors make computer-related crimes in Lafayette complicated?

  Computer-related crimes in Lafayette are complicated due to encryption, advanced storage techniques, and regulations surrounding privacy laws and internet service providers. In order to prosecute these crimes, it is crucial to document all evidence thoroughly, including tracing its history and associated IP addresses. Additionally, defense strategies and evidence may be excluded as hearsay, further adding to the complexity of these cases.

• Is it possible for someone with a suspended license in Lafayette to obtain permission to drive to and from work?

  Yes. If an individual in Lafayette has a suspended license, they can request permission from the court to drive to and from work. This requires the court that issued the suspension to grant specialized driving privileges, which essentially puts their license on hold but permits them to use it for work-related purposes.

• 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.