Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Davenport, IA

FAQs

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

  To contact the local police station in Davenport for non-emergency issues, dial (563) 326-7979.

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

  Police reports can be obtained by requesting them in person at the Front Desk & Records Bureau of the Davenport Police Department, located at 416 Harrison Street Davenport, IA 52801. You can also submit your request for police reports online through The City of Davenport website at www.davenportiowa.com.

• Can the Davenport police detain someone for domestic violence without a warrant of arrest?

  In Davenport, police officers can arrest individuals suspected of committing domestic violence based on probable cause. To establish probable cause, there must be a reasonable belief that a crime has occurred. For instance, if the officer observes visible injuries on the victim or the accused individual possesses a dangerous weapon, these can be considered probable cause. Examples of dangerous weapons include knives or other objects that can cause harm or injury.

• What are the potential consequences faced by an individual convicted of assault in Davenport?

  The penalties for assault in Davenport depend on the crime's specific circumstances. In Iowa, assault is defined as an act that intends to cause physical harm or injury to another individual. Given the gravity of this offense, the repercussions for those found guilty can be severe. Class C felony offenders may face up to 10 years of imprisonment, while those accused of serious misdemeanors may serve up to one year in prison.

• What are the consequences of an OWI charge in Davenport?

  An OWI charge in Davenport can severely impact an individual's personal and professional life. The loss of driving privileges is one of the immediate consequences of such a charge, as it can significantly impact a person's ability to perform daily tasks. It also tarnishes one's criminal record, making it challenging to secure employment. Apart from this, the financial implications of an OWI charge can be daunting, with expensive fines and court fees that can cost thousands of dollars.

• What are the penalties for tampering with an ignition interlock device in Davenport?

  An individual found guilty of tampering with an ignition interlock device in Davenport faces up to one year of incarceration and a fine of no more than $1,000. Tampering with an IID is considered a serious misdemeanor criminal charge in Iowa, and it is essential to adhere to the law and use the device as intended to safeguard everyone on the road.

• Which types of simple misdemeanor charges can be expunged in Davenport?

  In Davenport, certain simple misdemeanor charges, such as disorderly conduct, fifth-degree theft, harassment, assault, and possession of drug paraphernalia, can be expunged. However, the person applying for the expungement must not currently be facing any criminal charges and must have received the conviction for a simple misdemeanor at least five years ago.

• 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.