Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Pawtucket, RI

FAQs

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

  Call the Pawtucket Police Department's general phone line at (401) 727-9100 for non-emergencies.

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

  A person may request a copy of a police report by mailing or going to the Office of the Records Division in person. The police station is located at 121 Roosevelt Avenue in Pawtucket. Prior to making a request, fill out and submit the request form which can be downloaded from the police's official website http://www.pawtucketpolice.com/faq/index.html.

• When is the best time to hire a criminal defense lawyer in Pawtucket?

  After being arrested for a crime in Pawtucket, it is essential that arrestees should hire a criminal defense lawyer promptly to help them understand their rights in the legal process. Hiring a lawyer at the onset of the case can probably save the client more money and time in the long term. The lawyer can assist in creating a suitable strategy that includes how to behave throughout the trial which may lead to a better outcome.

• What are some of the common crimes committed in Pawtucket?

  The most common property crimes committed in Pawtucket are vehicle theft, burglary, and larceny while the most common violent crimes are aggravated assault, robbery, and rape. In a given year, property crimes account for a rate of around 17 per 1,000 residents while violent crimes account for four per 1,000 residents. In general, Pawtucket has a higher total crime rate compared to many cities in the country. Its total crime rate is 53% higher compared to other areas in the state.

• Can a convicted person expunge his criminal record in Pawtucket?

  Under Rhode Island laws, persons in Pawtucket can be eligible for expungement if they are first-time offenders convicted of misdemeanors and specific non-violent felonies. They will not be eligible for expungement if they committed violent crimes such as child molestation, first- or second-degree sexual assault, and murder. The expungement is filed after the offender has successfully completed the sentence or paid the fine. Before filing, these offenders should get a BCI report from the Attorney General's Office.

• What services do criminal defense lawyers provide to their clients in Pawtucket?

  The legal services that criminal defense lawyers in Pawtucket commonly provide include assisting clients in investigating facts and gathering evidence to support the defense. These lawyers are responsible for drafting and filing motions and other legal documents on behalf of the defendant. They also negotiate plea bargains with prosecutors, represent clients at trials, appeal a conviction, and help with bail hearings if necessary.

• Is there a criminal statute of limitation in Pawtucket?

  It depends on the case in Pawtucket. General Laws in Rhode Island provide no statute of limitations for serious crimes such as treason, homicide, arson, burglary, rape, and sexual assault. Larcenies, including threats and extortion, bribery, embezzlement, and fraudulent conversion, require a ten-year deadline. Other criminal offenses shall have three years statute of limitation unless otherwise stated in the general provisions.

• 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.