Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Eugene, OR

FAQs

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

  To reach the Eugene Police Department, call (541) 682-5111.

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

  To obtain a police report from the Eugene Police Department, call (541) 682-5185 and then provide the PRR# provided by the Public Records Office.

• What is the difference between theft and burglary in Eugene?

  Theft means unlawfully taking property that is not yours. Burglary, on the other hand, means entering a building with the intent to commit a crime. Another difference is that theft is not automatically a felony, but burglary is. Eugene takes burglary seriously, meting out a five-year prison sentence and a fine of $125,000 to the offender.

• How does Measure 11 affect criminal offenders in Eugene?

  Measure 11, also called the "One Strike, You're Out" initiative, establishes that an offender convicted of any of the violent crimes or major felonies subject to this measure will have to spend the required minimum sentence without any chance to have it reduced. The offender also cannot be paroled until the mandated sentence is over. For example, aggravated murder in Eugene carries a minimum of 30 years.

• Does Eugene have anything in place to help non-violent criminal offenders facing possible jail time because of mental crises?

  Yes. The Oregonian government has diversion services that seek to put mentally ill individuals in community-based programs instead of putting them in jail. Programs like these aim to rehabilitate offenders, keep recidivism low or non-existent, and help them avoid spiraling into a mental state that encourages recklessness or disregard for their well-being.

• Could you be in legal trouble in Eugene if you were unknowingly affiliated with a drug trafficker?

  Yes. You only need to have a remote connection to the entire web of this drug trafficking ring in Eugene to face drug conspiracy charges. It doesn't matter whether you were aware of it or not. This also means if the sentence ultimately amounts to a Class A felony, for example, then you will be charged the same. A criminal defense attorney should be able to help establish your innocence.

• What is the difference between a restraining order and a stalking protection order in Eugene?

  One difference is that restraining orders eventually expire after one year. A stalking protection order in Eugene, however, stays permanently until the petitioner files to have it terminated. There are some individuals who misuse the latter and have it filed for frivolous reasons, such as gaining the upper hand in custody battles.

• 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.