Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Kenner, LA

FAQs

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

  (504) 712-2222 is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Kenner.

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

  To request a police report, please contact the Records Management Section which is responsible for handling all such requests. It is recommended to call them first to inquire about the report's status and associated costs, at 504-712-2200. Please note that the Records Management Section operates during business hours, from Monday to Friday, between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM.

• Can you represent yourself in a criminal case in Kenner?

  Yes. While it is legal to defend yourself in a criminal matter in Kenner, doing so is not advised. Without any legal education or expertise, it can be challenging to properly navigate the legal system because criminal defense is such a complex area of the law. It will be difficult to effectively defend yourself because the prosecutor handling the case will be skilled. The likelihood of securing a good result or plea bargain might be increased by hiring a criminal defense attorney.

• What are the penalties for a federal crime conviction in Kenner?

  Penalties for a federal crime conviction in Kenner include incarceration, large fines, probation, and deportation. It's important to note that the severity of the penalties will depend on the nature and severity of the crime, as well as any prior criminal record of the defendant. It's critical to consult with an experienced federal criminal defense attorney who can help navigate the complex federal legal system and advocate for your rights and best interests in court.

• What are the common drug cases in Kenner?

  Charges relating to cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamine, and prescription drugs are among the drug-related offenses that criminal defense lawyers in Kenner frequently handle. If you have been accused of any of these drug charges, it is crucial that you seek the counsel of a skilled criminal defense lawyer who can defend your rights and work to get the best result for your case.

• What are the penalties for a first-time DWI offense in Kenner?

  For first-time offenders, the penalties for a DWI offense in Kenner include a 12-month driver's license suspension, from 10 days to six months behind bars, fines between $300 and $1000, a minimum of 40 hours of community service, and mandatory driver education. It's important to note that even if it's your first offense, a DWI conviction can have serious long-term consequences, such as increased insurance rates, difficulty finding employment, and difficulty obtaining loans or other forms of credit.

• What's the deadline to request a license reinstatement hearing after a DWI charge in Kenner?

  You have 30 days to request an administrative hearing regarding the reinstatement of your driver's license after a DWI charge in Louisiana. If you fail to request a hearing, the state may suspend your license. It's crucial to act quickly and protect your license by requesting an administrative hearing within the 30-day window or risk losing your driving privileges.

• 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.