Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Lawrence, KS

FAQs

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

  You can contact (785) 843-0250 for non-emergency situations in Lawrence, Kansas.

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

  • You can submit your request by mail, email, or in person at the Records Division of the Lawrence Police Department.
  • You can send an email to recordrequest@lkpd.org expressing your request.
  • You can also submit a self-addressed, stamped envelope together with a written request that includes your mailing address, phone number, email address, and any other information that may be relevant to the review of your request.

• What skills do Lawrence criminal defense lawyers need to have?

  A reputable Lawrence criminal defense attorney can investigate a crime and gather evidence to help a client win a case. Adaptability, critical thinking, emotional intelligence, leadership, and empathy are examples of the qualities lawyers need to have. Lawyers must also be resourceful, negotiate well, and communicate effectively in order to provide a successful defense for those accused of crimes.

• What is the criminal statute of limitations in Lawrence, Kansas?

  A general statute of limitations of five years applies to felonies, misdemeanors, and infractions that are not explicitly named in the statute. In Lawrence, Kansas, there is no time restriction on murder cases. Sexually violent offenses usually have a time limit of 10 years after the crime or after the victim reaches the age of 18.

• What are the main responsibilities of Lawrence criminal defense attorneys?

  Criminal defense lawyers in Lawrence are primarily responsible for defending your legal rights and preserving your interests. They conduct research, evaluate cases, and submit their findings in court in order to liberate the accused, negotiate a plea deal, or have the case dismissed. They also devise methods to resolve issues in a favorable and cost-effective manner for clients.

• Does hiring a Lawrence criminal defense attorney make you look guilty?

  Hiring a Lawrence criminal defense attorney will not make you appear guilty. It gives the impression that you are serious about your innocence, reputation, and future. It is not a smart idea to represent yourself in a criminal case. You are at a serious disadvantage from the outset since you lack experience with criminal court processes and are unfamiliar with the local court system. A Lawrence criminal defense lawyer's experience and ability are critical in establishing a strong defense strategy in a criminal prosecution.

• Can a Lawrence criminal defense lawyer drop a client in the middle of a case?

  The American Bar Association states that when a lawyer is assigned to represent a client, withdrawal usually needs the consent of the appointing body. Nonetheless, a lawyer must normally reject or withdraw from representation if the client requests that the lawyer participate in illegal or unlawful action that breaches the Rules of Professional Conduct or other law. In general, a Lawrence criminal defense attorney would not abandon a client in the middle of a case unless there were compelling reasons to do so, such as conflicting case strategies, fraudulent actions, or refusal to pay attorney's fees.

• 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.