Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Metairie, LA

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency concerns, call the Jefferson Parish Sheriff at 504-736-6000. Metairie is a census-designated place located in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, United States.

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

  The JPSO Technical Services Bureau operates a records and reports section that provides police reports for a fee of $25 for the first five pages and $1 per additional page. This section is located in Building A of the Westbank Administration Complex, which is located at 1233 Westbank Expressway in Harvey, Louisiana. Monday through Friday, the office is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• What criminal offenses in Metairie do not have a statute of limitations?

  A statute of limitations specifies the time frame within which the prosecution must file a criminal charge. According to the Louisiana state legislature, there is no statute of limitations on the filing of charges for any crime in Metairie punishable by death or life in prison or for the crimes of aggravated or second-degree rape (R.S. 14:42.1).

• Which neighborhoods in Metairie have low crime rates and are regarded as safe places to live?

  Recent crime statistics in Metairie indicate that the following neighborhoods have low rates of criminal activity and are safe for residents. Elmwood Park, Metairie Lakefront East, Metairie Lakefront West, Lakewood, Bissonet Garden, Delta North, Haring Rd / Camphor St, Old Metairie North, Bucktown, and W Napoleon Ave / Frankel Ave are included in this list.

• How can a criminal defense attorney defend you if you are arrested in Metairie for shoplifting?

  A criminal defense lawyer in Metairie can help you in various ways if charged with shoplifting. False accusations, inability to form the intent to steal, and the fact that you own the item you're accused of stealing but the "supposed victim" had it for another reason are among the legal defenses available for shoplifting.

• How can you be charged with the crime of burglary in Metairie?

  Louisiana defines simple and aggravated burglary. Simple burglary is entering a house, car, boat, or other structure to steal or commit a felony. Aggravated burglary can result from simple burglary. Examples: The defendant was armed, armed themselves inside the structure, or the defendant assaulted someone inside or outside the building. Burglaries rarely have witnesses. False accusations are common. If charged, you need a Metairie criminal defense lawyer.

• What should you do if you are under the age of 21 and accused of a DUI criminal offense in Metairie?

  Individuals under the age of 21 who operate a motor vehicle, aircraft, or watercraft with a blood alcohol concentration of.02% or higher will be charged with DUI. If your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is.08% or higher, the legal limit for adults, you will be charged as an adult regardless of your age. You should consult with a criminal defense attorney to better understand your rights and the potential consequences of these charges on your future.

• 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.