Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Fargo, ND

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Fargo, North Dakota?

  For police assistance in a non-emergency in Fargo, contact (701) 235-4493.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Fargo, North Dakota?

  You can get a copy of a police report by submitting a 709 Request form in person at 225 4th Street North, Fargo, North Dakota 58102. You can also submit the form online, or make the request over the phone at (701) 235-4493.

• What is the crime rate in Fargo?

  Fargo is the eighth safest city in North Dakota, having recorded the most number of Group A crimes as mentioned in the FBI Uniform Crime Report. Group A crimes include violent crimes such as murder, non-negligent manslaughter, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault. Property crimes like burglary, larceny, arson, and motor vehicle theft are also in the same category. As of January 2023, there are almost 730 crimes committed per 100,000 residents in Fargo.

• What is the crime clearance rate in Fargo?

  Of the 929 offenses recorded in January 2023, 278 have already been cleared. That's a clearance rate of 29.92%.

• What are the most common domestic incident crimes in Fargo?

  According to the Fargo Police Department, the NIBRS Agency Crime Overview for January 2023 listed 137 Simple Assault cases, which is 81.5% of the total number of domestic incidents reported that month. Next in line are the 25 cases of aggravated assault and 13 intimidation charges.

• What are the most common crimes committed by juveniles in Fargo?

  For the month of January 2023, juveniles account for 28 group offenses reported by the Fargo Police Department. Top of the list is 18 simple assault cases, followed by 4 drug or narcotic violations.

• How many crime arrests are made in Fargo?

  In January 2023 alone, the Fargo Police Department made a total of 275 arrests. About 88% of these are adult arrests. There were 34 juveniles arrested in January. The arrest rate in Fargo is 216 per 100,000 people.

• 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.