Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Salem, OR

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency line for the Salem Police Department is 503-588-6123.

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

  The City of Salem maintains an online Public Records portal through which residents can obtain a copy of a police report for incidents related to their case. Those who do not have an email address can go to the Salem Police Department and request police records in person. After receiving the request, it takes at least 72 hours to process it.

• Is underage drinking a crime in Salem, Oregon?

  Salem residents under the age of 21 who are found to have violated Oregon Statute 471.430 1 may be cited and referred to juvenile court. Although, there is a limited exception for minors permitted to consume alcohol in the presence of their parent or legal guardian at a private residence. If a minor receives a citation, they may face fines, license suspension, community service, and other educational or career consequences.

• What are possible criminal charges when hunting in Salem, Oregon?

  Although hunting is legal in Salem, Oregon, it is necessary to have the proper license and follow regulations to avoid being cited with penalties. When hunting, keep in mind the permitted hunting grounds and always check property boundaries. It is also illegal to use dogs to hunt any game mammals. Additionally, do not use weapons such as crossbows and guns with a range-finding scope that projects a beam to the target.

• Does a criminal charge revoke your gun license in Salem, Oregon?

  In Salem, Oregon, criminal charges will not result in license revocation. However, being convicted of a felony or a stalking misdemeanor and being the subject of a court order related to domestic violence, as well as having a serious mental condition, will prevent you from obtaining and possessing a concealed handgun license.

• Will a minor get tried as an adult for crimes in Salem, Oregon?

  Minors in Salem may get tried for the crimes as an adult for crimes they committed. However, it will not be automatic. Effective on the first day of January 2020, prosecutors are required to determine whether or not a person ages 15 or older should be tried as an adult. Furthermore, if a person was under the age of 18 at the time of the offense, they cannot be sentenced to life in prison with no possibility of release or parole.

• How do you remove your name from the sex offender registry in Salem, Oregon?

  A person who wishes to have their name removed from the Salem, Oregon sex offender registry must petition for removal. Those convicted of a single Class C felony or misdemeanor sex crime can apply for removal only after ten years. Before granting such relief, the court will conduct a thorough investigation into the person's history since the conviction, as well as factors related to the crime itself, such as the level of violence and the victim's age.

• 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.