Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Abilene, TX

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Abilene Police Department is 325-673-8331.

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

  You can get a copy of the police report for incidents related to your case by submitting a written request to the Abilene Police Department Records Division at 4565 South 1st St. Abilene, TX 79605.

• If you are convicted of a crime and are serving probation in Abilene, is there a way for you to end your probationary period early?

  You can file for a motion for early termination of probation, provided you satisfied the conditions of your court-ordered probation. The qualifications for early termination of probation in and around Abilene are as follows:

  • Complete at least 1/3 of your probationary period and court-ordered treatment or counseling;
  • Pay fines, restitution, and other court-related fees;
  • Fulfill your probationary conditions with minimum to zero number of violations; and
  • Do not get convicted of disqualifying offenses like sex and serious violent crimes.

• How can a law firm or attorney help with your Abilene criminal defense case?

  Law firms or attorneys mainly advise you and advocate for you throughout your criminal defense case, performing tasks such as guiding you on what statements to give to law enforcement officers and handling court-related paperwork. Some firms utilize their resources to proactively build your defense, from gathering witness testimonies in your favor to actively researching recent case law and existing statutes for defense strategies.

• What are the methods of appeal for your Abilene criminal defense case?

  You can appeal your Abilene criminal defense case through a direct criminal appeal or a writ of habeas corpus. A direct criminal appeal involves submitting to the trial court within 30 days of judgment written notice that an issue arose during the trial. On the other hand, a writ of habeas corpus is a post-conviction appeal that alleges you suffered from a fundamental and constitutional error during the trial, such as ineffective assistance of counsel.

• What should you look for in an attorney for your Abilene criminal defense case?

  Qualities to look out for in attorneys generally fall into two categories: experience and certifications. For your Abilene criminal defense case, consider the years of experience an attorney has and if the cases he or she has handled align with your circumstances before retaining him or her. It is also useful to search for additional certifications in line with your criminal defense case, such as a criminal defense specialization from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

• Do all criminal defense cases in Abilene go to trial?

  Abilene criminal defense cases can be settled before going to trial. Attorneys may be able to get your misdemeanor or felony charges dropped or your sentence reduced outside of court. They do this by pointing out fundamental errors in your charges or arrest during pre-trial or negotiating with the prosecution.

• 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.