Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Bend, OR

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number of the Bend police department is (541) 693-6911.

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

  You can visit the website of Portland Public Records request Center in Bend to get a copy of your police report. Send your request to the office that holds the physical copy of your report, and make the necessary payment to obtain the records you need. You may also call the public records personnel at 503-823-0756 to inquire about your documents.

• What are considered confidential information in Bend?

  In accordance with Oregon State Law, Bend maintains strict confidentiality regarding sensitive information related to senior abuse, child maltreatment, physical and mental health, children's records, selected personal information, and ongoing investigations. Details related to these are not disclosed to the public as part of the state's efforts to maintain the safety and privacy of its constituents.

• Should you talk to the police if you were arrested in Bend?

  No, you do not have to speak to the police following your arrest. You can maintain your right to silence since any statement you make can be utilized as evidence against you. It is permissible to furnish law enforcement with fundamental information, but it is critical to refrain from providing any additional information until the services of a criminal defense attorney in Bend, have been secured.

• Can the Bend police arrest you without any warrant?

  It depends on the circumstances. If the Bend police have probable cause to believe that you have committed a felony, they may be able to arrest you without a warrant. However, for misdemeanor crimes or arrests inside a person's home, a warrant would generally be required. It may be beneficial for you to consult a legal professional for specific advice.

• Should you agree to a plea deal after getting arrested in Bend?

  Choosing to accept a plea bargain in Bend requires considerable thought and advice from a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer in your area. Even though plea bargains can offer advantages like lighter sentences or the dropping of remaining charges, the decision to accept a plea deal should be based on the individual's particular circumstances, including the strength of the evidence against them and the potential consequences of a conviction.

• What distinctions exist between DWI, DUI, and DUII in Bend?

  In Bend, there are no legal distinctions between DWI, DUI, and DUII. Some states and jurisdictions use these phrases interchangeably. In Bend, an arrest for driving while intoxicated is known as "Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants" or DUII. Consequently, if someone were to be charged with a DUII in Bend, it would have the same meaning regardless of whether they were charged with a DWI, DUI, or DUII in other states or jurisdictions.

• 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.