Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Odessa, TX

FAQs

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

  The Odessa Police Department is reachable at 432-335-4961 and 432-333-3641.

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

  The police office is at 205 N Grant Avenue, Odessa, TX 79761, while the records unit is reachable at 432-335-3306 by phone and 432-335-4966 by fax.

• What should you do if you are arrested for a criminal offense in Odessa?

  If you are arrested for a criminal offense in Odessa, you must stay calm and refrain from aggressive behavior. Do not resist arrest but don't say anything about the alleged crime--invoke the right to remain silent because even exculpatory statements can be interpreted against you. Also, ask for a lawyer immediately and follow the latter's advice.

• What are the initial steps your criminal defense counsel in Odessa will take when the initial hearing starts?

  Your criminal defense counsel in Odessa will begin by explaining the charges against you and will very likely ask the court for an extension to study the facts and law applicable to your case. Your counsel will also ask the court for the amount of the bail bond to secure your provisional liberty. During the extension, the lawyer will determine if it's wise to negotiate a plea deal or if an acquittal is possible.

• What are bail bonds for in Odessa?

  Bail bonds in Odessa are payments made by criminal suspects to secure provisional liberty during the litigation process. These are usually secured with the assistance of a bail bondsman who assumes the obligation of ensuring that the suspect appears on set court dates in exchange for forking over the sum set by the judge.

• What are the consequences of criminal offenses in Odessa?

  Persons who are charged with a crime in Odessa can expect expensive fines at a minimum or the loss of licenses for traffic offenses. Imprisonment is a common outcome of the conviction. Individuals who have done their time are also faced with difficulties in securing gainful employment and shunning from society at large.

• What are felonies under the law applicable in Odessa?

  Under the state laws applied in Odessa, felonies refer to serious crimes with lengthy prison time. These include aggravated assaults, drug trafficking, murder, and rape. DWIs are also felonies from the third strike onward. Offenses that violate federal statutes are also often felonies, like mail fraud and committing any offense on federal property.

• 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.