Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in McKinney, TX

FAQs

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

  972-547-2700 is the non-emergency contact number of the police station in McKinney.

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

  You can make an open records request using various methods such as sending an email to Records@McKinneyTexas.org, sending a fax to 972-547-2792, mailing your request to Police Records at 2200 Taylor Burk Dr., McKinney, TX 75071, or through their open records request portal: https://mckinneytx.mycusthelp.com/WEBAPP/_rs/(S(pfsncetoasoovmtrfsfmhejy))/supporthome.aspx.

• Is it okay to talk to the McKinney police if you are innocent of the charges?

  No. The recommended guideline for engaging with the police in McKinney is to stay quiet until you have sought advice from a skilled defense attorney. Even innocent individuals have been found guilty in the past due to nervous errors they make while responding to law enforcement queries. Words can be misinterpreted, and silence may be perceived as an attempt to conceal the truth. It is advisable not to gamble with your future.

• Is it possible to defend against a drunk driving charge if you fail the breathalyzer test in McKinney?

  Yes. In McKinney, it is possible to defend against a drunk driving charge despite failing a breathalyzer test. The breathalyzer test can be impacted by various factors, including machine calibration and medication use. Furthermore, it is feasible to challenge the "probable cause" of the traffic stop leading to the charge.

• Do you have to appear in court when charged with a criminal case in McKinney?

  Appearing in court when charged with a criminal case in McKinney might not be mandatory. Nevertheless, if a court order requires you to attend and you fail to appear, you could end up being incarcerated. It is prudent to make arrangements for child care and work schedules to ensure that you attend the court date.

• Isn’t it cheaper to pay the fine and accept the penalties than contest minor charges in McKinney?

  Pleading guilty to minor charges in McKinney may seem cheaper, but it can lead to costly and long-term consequences. DWI or DUI convictions can increase insurance rates and add points to driver's licenses, while misdemeanor drug charges may affect criminal records and impact future job or housing opportunities.

• What penalties are you facing if you're convicted in McKinney?

  The penalties for criminal offenses in McKinney and throughout Texas can range from fines to imprisonment. The severity of the punishment is contingent upon multiple factors, including the type of offense charged, whether the individual is convicted, and whether the crime is classified as a felony or misdemeanor. It is crucial to seek legal counsel from a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer who can navigate the legal system, defend your rights, and potentially lessen the charges or penalties.

• 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.