Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Layton, UT

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency matters, individuals can dial (801) 497-8300 to reach the Layton Police Department.

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

  To request a police report, you have the option to either complete the Online Record Request Form on the Layton Police Department's website https://www.laytoncity.org, or visit the Records Division in person at 429 N Wasatch Dr, Layton, UT 84041. If you prefer to send your request by mail, it will only be accepted if the signature is notarized. Regardless of the method you used, you must provide a valid government-issued photo ID or notarized identity verification to receive the document.

• If the police in Layton only charged you with a misdemeanor, should you simply enter a guilty plea?

  Seek help from an experienced criminal defense attorney before deciding to plead guilty or take any further action. Many people think that misdemeanors are not serious because they are less severe than felonies, but this is a mistake. In Layton, misdemeanors are divided into three levels, with Class A being the most serious and Class C being the least serious. Even a Class C misdemeanor can result in jail time and a fine. Furthermore, a misdemeanor conviction will be on your criminal record, which can negatively impact your ability to get hired or find housing.

• What really counts as fraud in Layton?

  Fraud charges in Layton require specific elements regardless of the fraud type. Firstly, deception must be involved, which can take several forms, including lying, falsifying documents, or tampering with records. Secondly, the deception must result in a benefit, typically financial, such as obtaining money or property. However, the benefit could also be non-economic, like having a bargaining advantage or access to something.

• What should you do when you receive a civil stalking injunction in Layton?

  When you receive a temporary civil stalking injunction in Layton, it is imperative to hire a qualified criminal defense attorney. These orders are often filed against men, with false allegations being made in custody battles or from failed relationships. Your attorney will present evidence and information to the court, including witnesses, police reports, emails, and phone messages to support your case. He or she will also cross-examine witnesses and provide a strong defense.

• Does Layton allow marijuana possession?

  In Layton, the use and possession of marijuana are forbidden, and having a prescription or card from a place where it is legal will not protect you from being charged with possession. Additionally, if you are found to have marijuana in your system while operating a vehicle, you could be charged with driving while intoxicated even if you consumed it legally in another location.

• Are there any alternatives to jail time for criminal charges in Layton?

  The availability of alternative programs in Layton can be influenced by the presiding judge and the specifics of the case. Penalties for offenses can vary significantly depending on the judge's disposition. If faced with legal charges, there may be options such as community service, house arrest, probation, and even a probation program based on good behavior. Additionally, diversion agreements can be pursued wherein charges may be dismissed provided certain conditions are met. To maximize the chances of reaching a favorable agreement, it is crucial to seek legal advice promptly after being charged.

• 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.