Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Columbia, MO

FAQs

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

  Use the number 573-442-6131 to call for non-emergencies.

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

  Obtain copies of car accident reports personally at the police station, or request to have one mailed to you (with your address indicated on the report). The station is situated at 1 Justice Square (corner of Lincoln and Washington Streets), and the records unit can be reached at 803-545-3577.

• What were the latest changes to the expungement laws that will be applicable to cases in Columbia?

  Increasing the number of conviction types that qualify for expungement is one of the latest law changes that can be applied to cases in Columbia. A dramatic decrease in the waiting time before an offender can file for expungement was also included in the latest changes. Offenders who qualify with the recently expanded expungement law may be entitled by the court to have their criminal records sealed or destroyed.

• What happens next if a person is arrested and charged with a crime in Columbia?

  The prosecutor will file charges after a person is arrested and charged with a crime in Columbia. When charges are filed, the defendant has the option to challenge the charges through trial and have the case dismissed if it is won. In the event the case is not won, the defendant has the option to take a plea agreement to maybe obtain a lesser sentence.

• When can a public defender help in a criminal case in Columbia?

  If you are accused of a state crime and you can't afford counsel, a public defender can represent you. Indigent juvenile delinquents can also be represented by a public defender. A lawyer from the Public Defender District 13 Office is responsible for criminal cases in Columbia. The office is located at 601 E. Walnut in the metro. Additionally, public defenders cannot handle cases such as municipal charges, child custody, and deportation.

• How can community service hours be proven after a conviction in Columbia?

  There will be a person in charge who will verify the community service hours rendered for a conviction in Columbia. This happens in most, if not, all cases. It is important to record your hours and indicate the name and phone number or email of the responsible person who can verify your hours. Additionally, some courts have their own specific form that they prefer to use. It is important to note that falsifying records may cause additional charges against you.

• What traffic violations in Columbia would lead to criminal charges?

  The first offense of driving with a revoked license in Columbia is considered a misdemeanor. Repeated offenses could result in jail time. Careless and impudent driving, failure to yield to an emergency vehicle, and speeding over the limit are also considered misdemeanors. Texting while driving is at present illegal only to drivers under 21 years old.

• 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.