Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Billings, MT

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency phone number of the Billings Police Department is (406) 657-8200.

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

  You can secure a copy of a Billings police report online at https://www.billingsmt.gov/2853/Order-Police-Reports. The fee is $13 per document, payable through debit or credit card.

• What are the most common crimes in Billings?

  According to the Crime Analysis section of the Billings Police Department, as published in the Police Operations and Data Analysis Report, Larceny is the most common Part 1 offense in the city. Its 4,148 cases outnumber all the other Part 1 crimes combined. Part 1 crimes are a category set for reporting purposes which are divided into two more groups, violent crimes, and property cases. Crimes under the category include murder/manslaughter, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, and vehicle theft.

• What is the safest neighborhood in Billings?

  With only 7 reported offenses in the latest Monthly Task Force Report published on the Billings government website, Pioneer Park is the safest neighborhood in the city based on the number of criminal activities. The cases include 2 assaults, 3 DUI cases, and 2 motor vehicle thefts.

• What is the most dangerous part of Billings in terms of criminal activity?

  The neighborhood of Central-Terry recorded 59 offenses in January 2023 alone, making it the most dangerous area in Billings. Its DUI and aggravated DUI cases alone outnumber the entire offenses reported in Pioneer Park. Motor vehicle theft is the most common with 21 reported cases.

• What is the crime clearance rate in Billings?

  According to the latest Police Operations and Data Analysis Report published on the Billings government website, the crime clearance rate for crimes in the city is at 25%. This translates to 1,304 of 5,174 cases cleared. Larceny, being the most committed offense, recorded slightly above average at 26%, solving 835 cases of the 3266 total reported.

• How many weapon-related service calls does the Billing Police department receive?

  In the 2021 Billings Police Department Annual Report, 994 Call For Service incidents is classified as weapon-related incidents. These calls don't necessarily create criminal cases yet it is noted that 2021 saw the highest recorded occurrence of weapon calls in a six-year period.

• 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.