Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Beaverton, OR

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Beaverton Police Department in Oregon is (503) 629-0111.

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

  You can submit your request for a copy of the police report at the Beaverton Police Department's online portal at https://beavertonor.govqa.us/WEBAPP/_rs/supporthome.aspx. You can also reach them in person at 6125 SW Hall Blvd 97008 or through a call at 503-526-2261. Note that the approval process might take over 10 business days. A report typically costs $20.

• How can a Beaverton criminal defense attorney prove their client is not guilty of fraud?

  An attorney builds a strong case for their client accused of fraud by working with multiple experts, which include forensic accountants, certified public accountants, private investigators, and former IRS agents. The lawyer might also consult with experts in government regulations in cases involving welfare fraud. Beaverton recorded 303 instances of fraud in 2021, an over 11% increase compared to 272 in 2020.

• What are the penalties for a child pornography charge in Beaverton?

  A child pornography charge is a severe offense in Beaverton and is considered a felony. Individuals accused of the crime might face penalties like jail time between 1 to 20 years and fines from $125,000 to $375,000. If convicted, the person will also have to register as a sex offender, thereby losing their privacy and hurting their chances of finding a home or a job.

• How can an individual qualify for Beaverton's diversion program?

  The city's diversion program—part of a county-wide initiative—is available to individuals charged with misdemeanor offenses, provided they have no criminal record. These offenses include resisting arrest, disorderly conduct, reckless driving, and DUI. To qualify for the program, a Beaverton attorney must procure evidence demonstrating that their client did not cause injury to anyone during the arrest. The primary advantage of participating in the diversion program is that it could lead to the dismissal of all charges against the individual.

• Is there a distinction in the consequences for failing to appear in court when charged with a misdemeanor versus a felony in Beaverton?

  Yes. An individual who fails to appear in court for a misdemeanor crime may face a fine of over $6,000 and up to a year in jail, while a felony charge could result in a fine exceeding $120,000 and imprisonment for up to five years. It's recommended to hire a Beaverton attorney who can verify the age of the warrant and, if it's considerably old, help dismiss the charges altogether.

• What are the limitations of Oregon's self-defense laws for a Beaverton individual accused of a crime?

  A Beaverton individual could not claim self-defense if they provoked a person to engage in unlawful physical acts. A jury can also provide an unfavorable verdict to a person who defended themselves using a knife or a bat against an aggressor using their fists. Additionally, self-defense is not justified in cases involving "combat by agreement."

• 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.