Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Clifton

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Clifton, New Jersey?

  The non-emergency contact number of the Clifton Police Department is 973-470-5900.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Clifton, New Jersey?

  Before going to the Clifton Police Department, you should call its Records Division at 973-470-5877 to see if your report is available. The Records Division is open from Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Police reports may be unavailable if they involve minors, open or ongoing investigations, and major crimes with a pending trial.

• Why is it critical to have a skilled Clifton criminal defense attorney on your side?

  To achieve the best results for your criminal case in Clifton, hiring an attorney who had tried cases before juries and won appellate court cases is important. A skilled criminal lawyer will make the right decisions through each stage of the trial process as they understand how evidence is handled, how to select a jury, and how to argue a case.

• What are the deadlines for filing a criminal charge in Clifton?

  The following are the statutes of limitations for filing criminal charges in Clifton:

  • Manslaughter or murder offense: No time limit
  • Felonies such as official misconduct and bribery: Seven years since the crime was committed
  • Other felonies: Five years since the crime was committed
  • Misdemeanors such as petty offenses and disorderly conduct: One year since the crime was committed

• Are there any restrictions on what police officers in Clifton can search with a search warrant?

  Clifton police officers are not legally permitted to conduct searches outside the parameters specified in the search warrant. They must demonstrate probable cause based on credible information received as part of the search warrant application. If they search without a lawful warrant, the search itself is presumed unreasonable. Additionally, a judge must sign all legal search warrants.

• What should you do if you've been arrested in Clifton?

  If you have been arrested in Clifton, you should remain calm, polite, and silent. Never attempt to fight off an arrest or try to reason your way out of one. Even if the police gives the impression that they are providing you an opportunity to clarify your story to them, you might say something that could be disadvantageous to your case. Because of this, it is advisable to call a lawyer to discuss your situation before answering any police questions.

• What does a plea bargain in a Clifton criminal case imply?

  A plea bargain implies that you are admitting guilt and will have a criminal record as a result of your actions. An experienced criminal defense attorney will assist you in determining whether the plea bargain being offered is a good deal, allowing you to make an informed decision about whether to proceed to trial.

• 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.