Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Waco, TX

FAQs

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

  The Waco Police Department can be reached at (254) 750-7500.

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

  To obtain police reports and other records in Texas, you can get in touch with the local police department in the area where the crime occurred. In Waco, individuals can visit the Waco Police Department located at 721 North 4th Street, Waco, TX 76701, or call (254) 750-7500. Alternatively, you can request a police report online by creating an account on the the Waco Public Records Center at https://wacotx.mycusthelp.com/WEBAPP/_rs/(S(nzcsjecvap0gevhsst14p3z5))/SupportHome.aspx?sSessionID=

• What are your rights if you are frisked and stopped by the police in Waco?

  You have the right to remain silent, refuse consent, and ask for the officer's name and badge number if you are stopped by a police officer in Waco. If police think you have a weapon or illegal object, they can pat you down on the outside of your clothing during a stop and frisk. They cannot examine pockets or possessions without a warrant or consent. If you believe your rights have been violated, contact a Waco attorney to learn more about your options and take legal action.

• What should you do if the police come to your home in Waco?

  If the police arrive at your Waco house, you are not required to allow them in unless they have a warrant. Ask the officer display to show you the warrant by holding it up to the window or slipping it under the door. A search warrant only authorizes the police to search the locations and things indicated on the request, while an arrest warrant only allows the police to enter your house if they suspect the individual identified in the warrant is there. Remember that even if they have a warrant, you have the right to remain silent. If you opt to talk with the police, go outside and close the door behind you.

• How do you find sex offender information in Waco?

  To find information on sex offenders in Waco, you can go to the Texas Public Sex Offender Website, which is maintained by the Texas Department of Public Safety. The website features a search page that allows users to search for sex offenders using different criteria, including names, locations, and higher institutions. Members of the public can also create an account on the website to stay updated on sex offender information. Additionally, they can reach out to the Sex Offender Bureau by dialing (512) 424-2800.

• What usually happens at trial in Waco?

  A criminal trial in Texas has two main phases: guilt and innocence and punishment. The jury first decides whether the defendant is guilty or innocent. If the defendant is found guilty, the trial then moves on to the punishment phase. Note also that a trial consists of several stages: jury selection, opening statements, evidence presentation by the prosecution, cross-examination of witnesses by the defense, closing statements, and finally, the jury's decision. If the jury cannot reach a unanimous verdict, the judge may declare a mistrial.

• How long does a criminal case take in Waco?

  The duration of a criminal case in Waco is influenced by a variety of factors, including the complexity and severity of the charge, the prosecution's evidence, and the availability of court resources. The average length of a criminal case can range from two months to two years, depending on these variables. Note that a skilled criminal defense attorney can work to expedite the legal process and ensure that your case is resolved as efficiently and effectively as possible.

• 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.