Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Richardson, TX

FAQs

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

  972-744-4801 is the non-emergency contact number for the Richardson Police Department.

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

  You can obtain a copy of the police report for incidents related to your case from the Richardson Police Department's Online Public Records Center at https://richardsontx.govqa.us/WEBAPP/_rs/(S(vttbn1rg43tf0s5nxrzfpg3e))/supporthome.aspx.

• How much does it cost to hire a criminal defense lawyer in Richardson?

  The cost of a criminal defense attorney in Richardson depends on several factors. These include the complexity of the case, the severity of the charges, and the duration or number of hours the lawyer works on the case. Some lawyers charge an upfront retainer fee for the entire case, while others charge their clients by the hour.

• What are the possible penalties for misdemeanor and felony charges in Richardson?

  The possible penalties for misdemeanor and felony charges in Richardson include jail or prison time, hefty fines, probation, community services, and court-ordered classes or counseling. Some offenders are also obliged to pay restitution to potential victims. The gravity of the criminal charge determines the penalties imposed on the convicted.

• How long will your driver’s license be suspended if you are convicted of drunk driving in Richardson?

  The length of your driver’s license suspension will depend on several factors, including the severity of your charge, your age, and the number of times you have been convicted of DWI. Some basic timeframes for driver’s license suspension include:

  • First-time DWI offense: 90 days to one year
  • First-time DWI manslaughter: 180 days to two years
  • Second-time or subsequent DWI offense: 180 days to two years
  • Second-time or subsequent (within five years) DWI offense: one to two years
  • Second-time or subsequent (within five years) DWI assault: 90 days to two years
  • Second-time or subsequent (within 10 years) DWI manslaughter: one to two years

• What is the complete address of the Richardson Municipal Court?

  The complete address of the Richardson Municipal Court is 2100 East Campbell Road, Richardson, TX 75081. You can contact the Richardson Municipal Court at 972-744-4500.

• What are the possible penalties you could face if you are charged with assault against public servants in Richardson?

  If you are charged with assault against public servants such as emergency medical responders, firefighters, or other government personnel, you will be convicted of a third-degree felony. You can face two to 10 years of prison time, as well as a maximum fine of $10,000.

• 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.