Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Edmond

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number of the Edmond Police Department is 405-359-4338.

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

  You can request a copy of the police report related to your case from the Edmond Police Department at 405-359-4420. There is a $0.25 fee for each page of the police report.

• Should you give consent to the Edmond police if they want to search your house?

  You should not give consent to the Edmond police if they want to search your house, especially if they cannot provide you with a search warrant. Consenting to a house search by the police means waiving your constitutional rights. You can politely tell the police officers you do not consent without a search warrant.

• Can you keep a charge off your record if you have been arrested in Edmond?

  Even though you have been arrested for a criminal offense in Edmond, it is still possible to keep it off your record with the help of a criminal defense attorney. This can be done through acquittal, dismissal, or a special plea agreement.

• What is the statute of limitations for a federal criminal charge in Edmond?

  Most federal criminal charges in Oklahoma, where Edmond is located, have a five-year statute of limitations from the date the crime was committed. However, there is no statute of limitations for some federal crimes, such as terrorism, federal sex offenses, and crimes that are punishable by the death penalty.

• Do you have the right to refuse to take field sobriety tests in Edmond?

  If an Edmond police officer suspects you are driving under the influence, you have the legal right to refuse to perform field sobriety tests. However, due to Oklahoma’s “implied consent” laws, your driver’s license will be seized immediately if you refuse to take any alcohol test. Your driving privileges will also be suspended for a certain period, ranging from 180 days up to three years.

• What is the complete address of the Edmond Municipal Court?

  The complete address of the Edmond Municipal Court is 101 E. First Street, Edmond, OK 73034. You can also contact the Edmond Municipal Court by calling it at 405-359-4360 or sending a fax message at 405-359-4726.

• 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.