Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Cranston, RI

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Cranston, Rhode Island?

  To reach the Cranston Police Department, you can call them at (401) 942-2211.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Cranston, Rhode Island?

  To obtain a police report from the Cranston Police Department, call the Records Division at (401) 477-5020.

• Why is it important to have a defense attorney in Cranston for misdemeanor charges?

  It cannot be overstated that criminal cases in Cranston, even a misdemeanor, should never be handled on your own. If you are charged with a criminal case, the prosecution is most likely to seek the harshest punishment that could be given to you. Only another attorney can argue well on your behalf as to why you don't deserve it, and maybe even have the charges dropped entirely before it ever reaches trial.

• How do you look for a good criminal defense attorney in Cranston?

  It is of paramount importance that you find an attorney who's not only aggressive with their defense but also one who knows how to handle your case. Some good questions to ask one you're thinking of hiring include:

  • "Have you handled cases like mine before?"
  • "How many cases are you currently juggling right now?"
  • "What do you think is the outcome of this case?"
  • "Will you be assigning my case to your subordinates?"

• What happens if you refuse a breathalyzer test in Cranston?

  It will further complicate your case and make the officer who pulled you over think you're hiding something. People in Cranston sometimes refuse the breathalyzer test to escape DUI charges, but this can actually make things worse. Some of the penalties you may be looking at for doing this include:

  • Paying a fine of up to $500
  • Driver's license suspension of up to 6 months
  • Community service of up to 60 hours

• How long does the offender have to wait before they can have their record expunged in Cranston?

  It depends. If the offender in Cranston has committed a misdemeanor, then they must wait five years from the date of the expiration of their sentence. The number of years doubles for those who have committed a felony offense. These would have to include a probation period, if there is any. For example, if the offender has committed a felony offense and was given a 10-year probation period, then they would technically have to wait 20 years before expungement.

• Are disorderly conduct charges taken seriously in Cranston?

  Yes, it is. Not only that, but it can also be very tricky to navigate and may land you in jail in Cranston for something that you had no control over. For example, if you were charged with disorderly conduct, you will immediately be ordered to have "no contact" with the other party. However, this does not keep them from actually going to see you. Even if the meeting was consensual, you may be looking at a new criminal charge.

• 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.