Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Medford

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Medford is (541) 774-2250.

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

  You can obtain a copy of the police report in Medford by filing a request and submitting the form at Legal@cityofmedford.org. You need to provide the following information:

  • The claimant's name, address, and telephone number
  • Medford Police Department case number
  • The location where the incident occurred
  • Receipts, repair estimates, photos, and any other supporting documentation

• What consequences can you face if you have been convicted of domestic violence in Medford?

  If you have been convicted of domestic violence in Medford, you will be facing serious consequences as this case is sensitive because it involves the emotion of two parties. Domestic violence convictions result in a no-contact order or in some cases, a restraining order between the individuals involved. Restraining orders may extend to the children of two parties.

• What should you do if you were falsely accused of a crime in Medford?

  If you were falsely accused of a crime in Medford, it is best to hire a criminal defense attorney to help you tell the side of your story. Your legal team will help you protect your rights until you prove to the court that you are innocent or not guilty of the crime you have been involved.

• Are you required to plead guilty on your first court appearance in Medford?

  No. Although it is normal for you to feel remorse and embarrassment after being charged with a crime in Medford, it is a mistake to go to court and plead guilty at your first appearance. The criminal justice system makes people who have no law experience guilty that is why it is necessary to coordinate with a criminal defense attorney to protect your rights.

• What will you do after a DUI arrest in Medford?

  If you have been arrested for a DUI violation in Medford, you need to file a request with DMV for an implied consent hearing if the case is less than 10 days since your arrest or citation. You can send your request to DMV through fax or email and make sure that you process it immediately because there are no exceptions to the 10-day filing deadline.

• What should you do if you are under investigation for a crime in Medford?

  If you have been involved in a crime in Medford, a detective or police officer may come to your house or workplace for an investigation. It is best that you politely decline to answer their questions until you have your lawyer to represent you. Your legal team will help you create statements because anything that you say can be used against you.

• 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.