Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Somerville, MA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Somerville Police department is (617) 625-1600, Ext. 7250.

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

  You can file a records request with the Somerville Police Records Bureau in person at their office or by email at records@police.somerville.ma.us.

• Besides fines or imprisonment, what are the other possible consequences of an aggravated drunk driving charge in Somerville?

  Somerville locals charged with an aggravated drunk driving offense can face deportation should they be found guilty, provided the charge is felonious and their residency is in question. Pleading guilty or pleading continuance without a finding of guilt as a way to reduce the penalties of a felony charge may not prevent deportation.

• In Somerville, can you get your criminal charges dismissed without going to trial?

  Yes, and one of the ways to do so would be to apply for pretrial probation. Pretrial probation, or general continuance, postpones your trial for a set period, during which you must abide by certain conditions. These conditions range from staying away from an alleged victim, community service, or attending court-ordered rehabilitative programs. If you follow these conditions during the set period, your case will be dismissed.

• What should you do if you have been summoned to a Somerville clerk magistrate hearing?

  If you have been summoned to a Somerville clerk magistrate hearing for an alleged misdemeanor, you should prepare evidence and arguments that prove you didn't commit the alleged misdemeanor. Law firms can assist you in proving your innocence at this stage, helping you analyze the circumstances of the complaint and present evidence or arguments in favor of your innocence.

• After arrest in Somerville, should you discuss the details of your criminal defense case over the telephone?

  Some telephone calls in police jails are recorded, so discussing the allegations levied against you during a phone call may be bad for your case. If you have been arrested and detained in Somerville, you should exercise your right to a telephone call and contact loved ones or legal counsel to discuss your current condition, location, and the general details of the allegations against you.

• How can an expert witness assist in my Somerville criminal defense case?

  An expert witness can introduce an unbiased and knowledgeable opinion regarding a technical aspect of your case, such as medical professionals testifying about wounds and how they were sustained. Generally, an expert witness' testimony is related to evidence, either used as evidence of your innocence or as proof that previous evidence or statements against you are incorrect.

• 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.