Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in San Angelo

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency situations in San Angelo, you can contact (325) 657-4315.

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

  You can go to the San Angelo Police Department Records Division located at 401 East Beauregard on Monday through Friday, 8 PM to 4:30 PM. You can also obtain a copy of a San Angelo police report online or by mail. You can download and print the Request for Public Information Form, fill it out, and submit it with a self-addressed stamped envelope and a check or money order payable to the City of San Angelo. You can mail your request to: San Angelo Police Department, Attn: Records Division P.O. Box 5020 San Angelo, TX 76902

• What are the most important tasks of criminal defense attorneys in San Angelo?

  Advocating for the accused, safeguarding the client's interests, drafting legal documents, and performing tasks to guarantee that clients achieve favorable legal solutions and outcomes are among the most important tasks of San Angelo criminal defense lawyers. They conduct research and case analysis to identify probable results. They also represent clients at arraignments, hearings, and court trials. Additionally, they negotiate plea deals, punishments, and settlements.

• What is the criminal statute of limitations in San Angelo?

  In San Angelo, the statute of limitations for misdemeanor crimes is two years and three years for felonies, unless specified. Depending on the severity of the case, felonies have a specific statute of limitations, which is commonly five, seven, or 10 years. In general, serious crimes have a longer statute of limitations, while some offenses, such as sexual assault on a minor, manslaughter, and murder, have no time limits.

• Why do statutes of limitations exist in San Angelo?

  By establishing a statute of limitations in San Angelo, the state attempts to balance the necessity for plaintiffs to come forward with the defendant's capacity to collect the evidence to defend themselves. If the state does not file a case against a suspect within a particular time frame, it forfeits the right to pursue the case. Since the length of the delay impacts the quality of evidence on both sides, statutes of limitations exist.

• What are the common reasons why you need a San Angelo criminal defense attorney?

  If you have been accused of a crimes such as drug possession, sexual assault, or a juvenile offense, you should contact a San Angelo criminal defense attorney. Attorneys can help you comprehend the legal system, examine the conduct of law enforcement, and advise you on the probable results of your case. It is preferable to choose an experienced criminal defense attorney who has handled cases similar to yours.

• Can text messages be used as evidence in criminal cases in San Angelo?

  The courts are currently debating whether prosecutors may use texts as evidence against the accused in a criminal case. The Texas State Bar reports that parties seeking to introduce cellular text communications at trial confront two authentication obstacles. They must demonstrate that the papers they intend to admit into evidence are exact copies of the original text messages, as well as that the people to whom the communications are attributed actually authored them. It is best to consult a San Angelo criminal defense attorney if you were accused of a crime where text messaging may have a bearing.

• 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.