Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Fall River, MA

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Fall River, Massachusetts?

  (508) 676-8511 is the non-emergency contact number for the Fall River Police Department.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Fall River, Massachusetts?

  Defendants can request a copy of their police reports from the Public Records Department of the Fall River Police online or over the phone. They can also send their requests to the Fall River Police Department C/O Records Access Officer, 685 Pleasant Street Fall River, Massachusetts 02721-4305.

• What can happen if people accused of committing a crime in Fall River do not hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Without the assistance of an experienced criminal defense attorney, Fall River defendants may be unable to negotiate a plea bargain. A plea bargain is the best way for defendants facing serious penalties to get a reduced sentence. A plea bargain involves the defendant pleading guilty to a lesser crime in exchange for a mandatory sentence, such as a short jail term or community service.

• Do defendants in Fall River have to appear in court?

  Individuals arrested in Fall River for committing a crime are required to appear in court for their cases. A criminal defense attorney, on the other hand, may be able to obtain permission from the judge to waive their presence at certain pre-trial hearings. A Fall River District Court judge will hear the cases of defendants arrested in Fall River, Swansea, Somerse, and Freetown. The court is located at 186 S. Main Street, Fall River, Massachusetts 02720.

• What are the benefits of hiring a Fall River-based criminal defense attorney?

  Using the services of a Fall River criminal defense lawyer benefits defendants because they are familiar with the Fall River District Court's customs and procedures. Fall River attorneys understand which arguments are more likely to convince a particular judge or how to best negotiate with a certain prosecutor to obtain favorable results for defendants.

• Do defendants need a lawyer even for a minor charge in Fall River?

  Yes, because a misdemeanor conviction can damage the future of offenders in Fall River. In addition to the overt punishment that attaches to an offense, an arrest and conviction, even for a misdemeanor, can have lasting effects on your life. Being convicted of a crime means that you will have a criminal record, which can affect your housing opportunities, access to higher education, and future employment prospects.

• Is it possible to challenge the evidence against individuals who failed breath or sobriety tests in Fall River and throughout Massachusetts?

  Yes. Experienced Fall River OUI defense lawyers have the skill, knowledge, and resources to challenge breathalyzer and blood test results. They can question whether the police officer correctly administered the walk and turn, one-leg stand, or horizontal gaze nystagmus test and whether the blood or breath testing machine was calibrated.

• 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.