Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Memphis

FAQs

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

  (901) 545-2677 is the non-emergency contact number for Memphis law enforcement.

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

  In Memphis, the Central Records office can provide incident/offense records and vehicle collision reports. Call ahead with your query at (901) 636-3650.

• What questions should you ask a criminal defense attorney in Memphis?

  You should consult with a Memphis criminal defense lawyer about your legal choices and the various sorts of defenses available to you. Inquire with your lawyer about the actions you may take to improve the result of your case. Ask if you are eligible for electronic home detention, community service, or work furlough instead of traditional prison term. Determine whether probationary terms are advisable to you and if they could satisfy the prosecution and court's concerns, allowing you to get a reduced sentence.

• What are the common cases criminal defense attorneys handle in Memphis?

  DUI, theft, embezzlement, murder, and weapon charges are some of the typical cases handled by Memphis criminal defense attorneys. They also deal with domestic abuse, extortion, traffic offenses, and white-collar crimes. Misdemeanors are classified into three types: A, B, and C, with A being the most serious and C being the least serious. Felonies are classified into five categories: A, B, C, D, and E, with A being the most serious and E being the least serious.

• What questions do Memphis criminal defense lawyers ask their clients?

  Memphis criminal defense lawyers typically question their clients about the specifics of their case. Be as honest as possible while answering this question. Do not withhold any vital information from your attorney. Attorneys must understand the ultimate outcome you want. They want to know which communication methods are most convenient for you, based on your availability, preferences, and location.

• How long after a crime can charges be filed in Memphis, Tennessee?

  In Memphis, Tennessee, the time limit is determined by the offense level or the individual offense. First-degree murder has no time restriction. The time limit for defrauding the state, evading taxes, or submitting fake tax returns is six years after the act. Prosecution for a criminal offense must begin within fifteen years for a Class A felony and eight years for a Class B felony, four years for a Class C or D crime, and two years for a Class E felony.

• How honest should you be with your criminal defense lawyer in Memphis?

  It is best to be honest with your Memphis criminal defense attorneys. They have the best chance of crafting a defense that can raise a level of doubt when they have all the information. It is the role of a criminal defense attorney to listen to you and help you achieve the best possible outcome. Additionally, counsel may not purposefully mislead the court, but he or she is not required to provide the entire story of the defendant.

• 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.