Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Amarillo, TX

FAQs

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

  The local police station in Amarillo can be reached at (806) 378-3038 for non-emergency inquiries.

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

  To obtain a copy of the police report for incidents related to your case in Amarillo, Texas, you can make a written request to the Amarillo Police Department located at 200 SE 3rd Street. Alternately, you can send your request via fax to 806-378-9371 or email it to apdrecords@amarillo.gov.

• What is the process for appealing a criminal conviction in Amarillo?

  In Amarillo, filing a notice of appeal with the appeals court is the first step in a criminal appeal process. The defendant has 30 days to submit their brief, followed by a 30-day response period for the State. To increase chances of success, it's recommended to seek the help of a skilled criminal appeals attorney. The time to file an appeal is limited, making prompt action imperative.

• What are the penalties for misdemeanors in Amarillo?

  In Amarillo, misdemeanors are categorized into three levels of severity.

  • Class A: This is the most severe misdemeanor, with fines up to $4,000, incarceration for up to a year, or both.
  • Class B: The potential penalties for this misdemeanor are a fine of up to $2,000, imprisonment of up to 180 days, or both.
  • Class C: This is the least severe type. This offense is not punishable by imprisonment and carries fines up to $500.

• Can you refuse a breathalyzer test in Amarillo?

  Motorists in Amarillo are allowed to reject different types of sobriety assessments, such as breathalyzer inspections and blood analyses. Nonetheless, drivers who do not comply with these required evaluations may inadvertently authorize law enforcement officers to seize their licenses. Understanding the consequences of refusing sobriety tests is essential to avoid potential legal issues.

• What are the penalties for marijuana possession in Amarillo?

  The consequences associated with marijuana possession hinge on the quantity in question. Carrying under four ounces constitutes a misdemeanor, which could result in a maximum fine of $4,000 and up to a one-year incarceration. On the other hand, possession exceeding four ounces escalates to a felony offense. Those found guilty of a felony in Amarillo face penalties such as financial fines reaching $10,000 and a minimum jail sentence of 180 days.

• What are the legal consequences of theft in Amarillo?

  The repercussions for theft offenses vary based on severity. Misdemeanor theft convictions may result in a one-year jail term and a fine not exceeding $4,000. Felony theft convictions can lead to fines up to $10,000 and multi-year imprisonment. Apart from criminal charges, those accused of theft in Amarillo might encounter other legal ramifications in the form of civil lawsuits.

• 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.