Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in West Valley City, UT

FAQs

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

  801-840-4000 is the non-emergency contact number for the West Valley City Police Department.

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

  Copies of police reports for incidents related to criminal cases in West Valley City can be obtained from the Records Division of the West Valley City Police Department. The Records Division can be contacted at 801-963-3388. Requesters must complete the Online GRAMA Request form.

• Do criminal defendants in West Valley City have to agree to a prosecutor's request to waive their right to a preliminary hearing?

  No. The prosecutor must demonstrate to the judge that there is probable cause to proceed with the case, particularly in cases involving class A misdemeanors or felonies in West Valley City. A preliminary hearing allows criminal defendants and their legal teams to get a preview of the prosecutor's argument, as well as how their witnesses and evidence will fare in court. In some cases, seeking a preliminary hearing may be prudent because more evidence may be introduced, allowing the prosecution to add charges.

• How serious is a DUI charge in West Valley City?

  A DUI in West Valley City is a mandatory criminal conviction that is more serious than many felonies and can have long-term consequences for the defendant. A first or second DUI offense is classified as a misdemeanor. A third DUI charge within ten years, on the other hand, can be upgraded to a third-degree felony. Furthermore, DUI cases are more complex and difficult to defend than many other felonies.

• How can criminal defendants and their legal teams raise an alibi defense in West Valley City?

  If criminal defendants in West Valley City have an alibi, they must provide prosecutors with a separate, additional notice of the defense describing where they were at the time of the crime. Most states, including Utah, require that defendants notify the prosecution before the trial of an alibi defense within a certain timeframe prior to trial. If the defense fails to meet this requirement, the defendant may be denied the right to present a defense at trial.

• Is rape considered a serious offense in West Valley City and all of Utah?

  Rape is a serious crime in West Valley City and across Utah. It does not always necessitate violence or force, only a lack of consent. A separate statute exists for rape against a child under the age of 14 and another for object rape. Forcible sodomy is also a rape crime and can be charged if committed against an adult or child. Rape is a first-degree felony. If a defendant has a prior record of a serious sex crime, a rape conviction can result in life in prison without parole.

• What are the advantages and disadvantages of accepting a plea bargain for West Valley City criminal defendants?

  Accepting a plea bargain may provide West Valley City criminal defendants benefits such as reduced sentences, reduced charges, and case closure. A plea agreement also alleviates the uncertainty of going to trial and not knowing the outcome, allowing defendants to deal with the consequences. The lack of a "not guilty" result, the possibility of coercion, and the possibility of a plea bargain being rejected by the court are all potential disadvantages of a plea bargain.

• 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.