Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Baytown, TX

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Baytown Police Department is 281-422-8371.

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

  To get a copy of the police report for incidents related to your case in person, you must go to the Records Division of the Baytown Police Department at 3200 N. Main Street, Baytown, TX 77521. You can also submit an online request at https://tx-baytown.civicplus.com/186/Open-Records-Request.

• What are the most commonly encountered criminal charges in Baytown?

  Sex crimes, driving while intoxicated, and theft offenses such as burglary and petty theft are among the most familiar criminal charges faced by Baytown defendants. Violent crimes, including domestic violence, homicide, assault, and battery, are also common. Offenders are advised to hire an attorney who will represent them in their case.

• What happens if you are arrested for a crime in Baytown?

  Regardless of which law enforcement agency arrests you in Baytown, you will be taken to and detained at the Harris County Jail Inmate Processing Center. You may be released on your own recognizance if you are facing minor charges. If you are charged with a more serious offense, you may be held in jail until your arraignment.

• What is the statute of limitations for charges involving drugs in Baytown?

  The statute of limitations for drug charges in Baytown varies depending on the type of crime committed, according to Title 6, Section 481.024. It is two years for misdemeanors and three years for felonies. Because Texas frequently errs on the harsher side of drug punishments, you should consult a lawyer about building your defense.

• How do you use your Miranda rights if you get arrested for a crime in Baytown?

  If you are suspected of a crime and get arrested in Baytown, you must exercise your Miranda rights, including the right to remain silent and have an attorney. When you are in police custody, you should always be given a Miranda warning before being interrogated. If the police coerced or forced you to answer without warning or with a lawyer present, the prosecutor cannot use your statement as evidence of your guilt during trial.

• How do you choose a criminal defense lawyer in Baytown?

  When looking for an attorney to represent you for a criminal charge in Baytown, you must consider various factors, such as experience in criminal law, proven track record, strategies used, and familiarity with Baytown courts. A lawyer must also possess relevant resources to manage your case and if they have received top reviews from their previous clients.

• 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.