Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Waterloo, IA

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency matters in Waterloo, call the Police Department at 319-291-2515.

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

  If you need to request a police report in Waterloo, call the Police Department’s Records Division at 319-291-4340 or send an email to wpdrecords@waterloopolice.com. You may also request a report in person at 715 Mulberry St, Waterloo Iowa, Mondays through Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• How can a criminal defense lawyer in Waterloo help your case?

  If you are facing criminal charges in Waterloo, your attorney will be responsible for handling many aspects of your case on your behalf. These may include conducting your own investigation of the relevant facts, evidence, and witnesses; crafting a defense strategy; getting your case ready for trial; and negotiating a plea bargain or having the charges against you dropped.

• Do you still need an attorney if you plan to plead guilty to your crime in Waterloo?

  Even if you plan to enter a guilty plea, it may be to your advantage to hire a criminal defense attorney in Waterloo. Your lawyer may be able to negotiate a lesser sentence and better outcomes for you. In addition, your lawyer can assist you in maintaining your constitutional rights as the case progresses.

• Will you be required to pay restitution if you are convicted of a crime in Waterloo?

  In Waterloo, the answer will depend on the specifics of your crime. If you are a victim of a violent crime or certain types of non-violent crimes, you must pay restitution under the Federal Mandatory Victims' Restitution Act of 1996. If the court orders restitution as part of your sentence, you must compensate the victim or their family for any financial losses they sustained as a result of your crime. This may include, but is not limited to, medical expenses, repairs to damaged property, and lost wages.

• Is it possible to treat a juvenile offender as seriously as an adult offender in Waterloo?

  In Waterloo, a minor who commits a crime may be tried as an adult, but more often than not, they will be dealt with in the juvenile court system, a branch of the justice system that places more of an emphasis on rehabilitation than punishment. Juveniles can only be tried and punished as adults if they have committed a heinous crime.

• What is the difference between parole and probation in Waterloo?

  Following a conviction in Waterloo, a judge may impose either parole or probation as punishment. The term "parole" is used to describe when a convicted felon is allowed to leave prison under the watchful eye of a law enforcement official. In contrast, probation is a form of criminal punishment that does not involve incarceration. It is typically handed out as a lesser penalty or for a first offense. A person on probation has a responsibility to avoid breaking the conditions of their sentence.

• 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.