Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Broken Arrow

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma?

  918-259-8400 is the non-emergency contact number of the Broken Arrow Police Department.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma?

  To obtain a copy of a report, there are two options available. The first option is to go to the BAPD Records Department located at 1101 N. 6th Street in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma during public hours of Monday to Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. It's important to bring the completed form and a valid photo ID. Alternatively, individuals can request a copy of the report by mail. They need to send the completed form, a check or money order, and a self-addressed stamped envelope to the BAPD Records Department at the same address mentioned above.

• What are the requirements for expungement in Broken Arrow?

  To be eligible for expungement, the conviction or deferred sentence must have been completed within a specific period of time. Expungement petitions must be filed with the district court in which the incident occurred, as well as attendance at the expungement hearing. The filing of expungement petitions, compliance with notice requirements, and representation at an expungement hearing can all be handled by criminal defense lawyers.

• Do you have the right to a jury trial for a misdemeanor case in Broken Arrow?

  A jury trial may be an option in certain misdemeanor cases, although a Broken Arrow defense lawyer may recommend pursuing a bench trial instead based on the case's specific circumstances. The decision to choose a bench trial instead of a jury trial may depend on several factors, including the evidence's strength and potential biases among jurors.

• What should you do if you have been arrested in Broken Arrow?

  In the event of an arrest in Broken Arrow, it is vital to maintain composure and cooperation. It is essential to exercise your right to remain silent and ask for legal representation rather than resisting arrest. It is advisable to avoid making any statements or admissions to the authorities without the presence of an attorney since they could be used against you during legal proceedings. By seeking the services of a criminal defense attorney, you can avoid errors that may compromise your defense and increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome.

• How long does the criminal court process take in Broken Arrow?

  The criminal court proceedings in Oklahoma, including in Broken Arrow, could last anywhere from 3 months to multiple years. This is largely dependent on the offense involved, jurisdiction, and how complex the case is. It is important to have a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney by your side to guide you through the process and ensure your rights are protected at every stage.

• What are some possible defenses against criminal accusations in Broken Arrow?

  Possible defenses include assuming the wrong identity, self-defense, lack of intent, not being guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, false accusations, and mental illness. It is important to consult with a Broken Arrow criminal defense attorney to determine the best defense strategy for your case. Your attorney can also help gather evidence, negotiate plea deals, and represent you in court to give you the best chance of a favorable outcome.

• 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.