Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Springfield, MA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency number for the Springfield Police Department is 413-787-6300.

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

  The Records Bureau of the Springfield Police Department maintains incident reports, criminal records, and accident reports. You may contact the records access officer by calling 413-787-6085 or visiting Room 210 of the office at 36 Court Street.

• What is Springfield's criminal statute of limitations?

  In Massachusetts, where Springfield is located, the statute of limitations for most felonies and misdemeanors is six years. However, not all criminal offenses have statutes of limitations. Given the gravity of acts such as murder, crimes involving minors, and crimes involving people with intellectual disabilities, the law recognizes that justice must be served regardless of the passage of time.

• How is bail for a criminal offense determined in Springfield?

  Several factors determine the amount and type of bail for a criminal offense in Springfield. The bail magistrate will consider:

  • if the accused person's release poses a threat to society or specific individuals
  • whether they have pending cases
  • whether they are on parole or probation
  • if they have the possibility of fleeing the country to avoid a court appearance
  • whether they have a respectable job and a local family

• Can self-defense be a valid excuse for a criminal offense in Springfield?

  Yes. Only when you or another person is in immediate danger from an aggressor and using force is the only reasonable course of action is it legal to defend yourself. Being provoked or challenged to a fight does not qualify as self-defense nor threats that are fictitious or far away. In Springfield, you must be in immediate danger or hurt before you can assert self-defense.

• Is a plea bargain available in Springfield for all criminal offenses?

  Plea bargains are a common feature of criminal defense cases in Springfield. You must cooperate with the prosecutor and admit guilt in exchange for less serious accusations. Up to 90% of criminal cases are settled through these agreements. Although they make it easier for the prosecution to secure convictions, they still carry the risk of you serving jail time or incurring hefty fines. You can get assistance weighing your options before accepting an offer by speaking with a lawyer.

• Which Springfield neighborhoods have the lowest crime rates?

  NeighborhoodScout's crime map identifies the following Springfield neighborhoods and areas as having the lowest crime rates:

  • Tinkham Road / Penncastle Street
  • Greenleaf Park
  • Forest Park Southeast, East Forest Park, Forest Park Northeast, and Forest Park North
  • Boston Post Road / Boston Road
  • Sumner Avenue / Allen Street
  • Indian Orchard South
  • Liberty Heights

• 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.