Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Lake Charles, LA

FAQs

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

  To report non-emergency situations in Lake Charles, please contact (337) 494-0460.

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

  You can obtain copies of police reports from the Lake Charles Police Headquarters located at 830 Enterprise Blvd, Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

• Why is it important to investigate criminal cases in Lake Charles privately?

  Private investigations for criminal cases in Lake Charles help defendants and the legal team determine what kind of approach they are going to take to resolve the case. Investigations can level the playing field and enable individuals to overcome issues like police reports that may contain boilerplate information. Most of the time, police reports have incorrect or missing information.

• Is it important to hire a legal team after being arrested in Lake Charles?

  Yes. If you have been arrested or are under investigation for a crime in Lake Charles, it is necessary that you hire a legal team. Criminal defense attorneys provide legal representation and help you develop strategies to resolve plea bargain issues. They negotiate with other parties to enable defendants to reduce the number and severity of their charges.

• What charges are eligible for expungement in Lake Charles?

  If you have been convicted of a criminal violation in Lake Charles, you can have your record expunged if it is a minor violation and your first and only offense. Dismissed charges can also be cleared. You can also have charges removed from your record if you are acquitted or found not guilty.

• What types of crimes can a minor commit in Lake Charles?

  It is not uncommon for Lake Charles minors to commit mistakes. There are several crime categories that children can get arrested for. They can face criminal charges if caught shoplifting or driving while intoxicated. They can also be convicted if they have violated the rights of other people.

• What should you look for in a criminal defense attorney in Lake Charles?

  If you are facing criminal charges in Lake Charles, you must hire a criminal defense attorney. You need to know how long the attorney has been practicing and how much time they can give for your criminal case. Most importantly, you need to determine if you are comfortable working with them.

• 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.