Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Beaumont, TX

FAQs

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

  The Beaumont Police Department accepts non-emergency calls at 409-880-3865 and incident reports at 409-880-3862.

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

  The Beaumont Police Department Records Management Unit is at the lobby of 255 College, Beaumont, TX 77701. Mail requests may be submitted to Beaumont Police Records, PO Box 3827, Beaumont, TX 77704.

• What are the most common kinds of crimes that occur in Beaumont?

  The most common crimes in Beaumont in 2022 are property crimes, with an incidence rate of 3,308.3 for every 100,000 people. Of this class of offenses, larceny is the most frequently occurring at 2,180.4 incidents per 100,000. Violent crimes happen at a rate of 1,225.5 for every 100,000; the most recurrent is aggravated assaults at 883.8 per 100,000.

• What is the distinction between a felony and a misdemeanor in Beaumont?

  In Beaumont, the distinction between a felony and a misdemeanor lies in the severity of the offense. A misdemeanor refers to minor offenses that are punished by up to a year in jail and, under Texas law, includes offenses like indecent exposure and public intoxication. Felonies are severe crimes that lead to extended prison time or the death penalty, ranging from assaults to murder.

• What common defenses do criminal defense clients use when charged with a drug offense in Beaumont?

  When charged with drug offenses in Beaumont, suspects can defend themselves by questioning whether protocols were followed during the arrest. A defense attorney will raise issues as to the existence of probable cause to arrest and search the defendant and if the arrest constitutes entrapment. The lawyer can also allege that the drugs were someone else's.

• What qualities should a criminal suspect in Beaumont look for in a defense attorney?

  Someone facing criminal charges in Beaumont should seek out a lawyer certified in criminal law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Years of experience are another useful qualification, including the specific courts where the attorney has appeared in. It is also advisable to look into what particular classes of offenses the counsel is known for, ranging from white-collar charges to violent incidents.

• What are the rights and qualifications of indigent clients in Beaumont who face criminal charges?

  An indigent in Beaumont is defined in the Texas Code of Criminal Prosecution as someone who is not financially able to employ a lawyer. These defendants are entitled to the services of a public defender in any judicial proceeding that could result in imprisonment. The attorney is retained through the appellate processes before the court of appeals.

• 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.