Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Rock Hill, SC

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Rock Hill, South Carolina?

  The non-emergency contact number of the local police station in Rock Hill is 803-329-7211.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Rock Hill, South Carolina?

  To get a copy of the police report, contact the Records Division of the Rock Hill Police Department at (803) 329-7200 and press #4. You may also obtain the report in person or by mail to:

  Rock Hill Police Department Attn: Records Dept. 120 E. Black Street
  Rock Hill, SC 29730

• When you get arrested in Rock Hill, do you have to speak with the police?

  You do not have to talk to the police when arrested in Rock Hill. Avoid making statements about what happened, and follow your right to remain silent. It is also advisable to be polite and not physically resist a law enforcement officer. Basic information such as name, address, phone number, and emergency contact can be given when being booked into jail, but any questions about the incident should not be answered until consulting with a criminal defense attorney.

• In Rock Hill, what is the prosecutor's function in a criminal case?

  In any criminal case, there are two sides: the prosecution and the defense. To assert that the defendant has violated the law in Rock Hill, the prosecutor speaks for the state. Criminal prosecutors need to be able to construct a solid case that establishes a defendant's guilt without a shadow of a doubt.

• What are the common criminal defenses used in Rock Hill?

  In Rock Hill, the defendant's intent plays a crucial role in their defense. Depending on the charges and the circumstances surrounding the case, several arguments can be presented in favor of the defense. These include self-defense, duress, insanity, entrapment, incompetency to stand trial, mistaken identity, and innocence of the crime in question.

• What should you do if you are being investigated in Rock Hill for fraud?

  If you suspect that you're under investigation for fraud in Rock Hill, you may initially feel compelled to meet with law enforcement to explain your side. However, resisting this urge is advisable as it could potentially lead to legal complications. Conversations with law enforcement officials can be easily misconstrued and used against you, potentially limiting your legal options. Instead, it's recommended that you seek the assistance of a criminal defense attorney who specializes in white-collar crimes.

• Will a conviction in Rock Hill jeopardize your professional license?

  In Rock Hill, being convicted of a white-collar crime can result in various consequences, such as hefty fines, victim compensation, and professional license revocation. Also, being accused of such a crime can harm your professional standing before trial. That's why it's crucial to seek the assistance of a criminal defense lawyer promptly if you're facing such allegations.

• 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.