Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Newport News

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Newport News, Virginia?

  757-247-2500 is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Newport News.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Newport News, Virginia?

  You can obtain a copy of your police record by using the FOIA Request Center. You can submit your request online, in person, or by mail to the FOIA Officer at the Department of Communications located at 2400 Washington Avenue, Newport News, VA 23607. It's not mandatory to submit a written request or explicitly mention FOIA for record requests, but it can be beneficial for both parties to have a written record of the request. FOIA Request Center: https://newportnewsva.govqa.us/WEBAPP/_rs/(S(gmzrgjulhjsxhd3xnqgodfwc))/supporthome.aspx

• What should you do if you are arrested in Newport News?

  If you have been arrested in Newport News, you may only provide your name, address, and social security number to the arresting officer. If the officer starts asking you questions, you must assert your right to remain silent and request an attorney. Under any circumstance, avoid making any statements to the officer.

• What is the criminal case process in Newport News?

  The criminal case process in Newport News involves several stages. The police conduct pre-arrest investigations and issue summonses, warrants, or indictments. The accused is formally arrested, booked, and or made to appear before a magistrate to set bail. There is an initial appearance before a district judge to determine if the accused needs legal representation. If a warrant or grand jury review of indictments lead to felony arrests, preliminary hearings may be held. Trials, pretrial motions, arraignments, and pleas follow. Sentencing and appeal follow a guilty verdict.

• What types of charges do criminal defense attorneys usually handle in Newport News?

  In Newport News, criminal defense attorneys deal with various cases, such as violent and gun crimes, domestic violence, robbery, burglary and theft, illegal drug possession, and charges related to DUI and DWI. These attorneys work with clients to develop custom-tailored strategies that can effectively resolve the case in the best possible way.

• Where are misdemeanor cases heard in Newport News?

  The court is responsible for handling minor criminal offenses, including petty theft and minor assaults, with a maximum jail sentence of less than one year. Additionally, the court deals with traffic violations like reckless driving and speeding. Misdemeanor cases are heard at the Newport News General District Court, which is located at 2500 Washington Avenue, 2nd Floor, Newport News, VA.

• What are the penalties for distributing methamphetamine for the first time in Newport News?

  In Newport News, the distribution or sale of methamphetamine is a serious offense, and it is essential to retain legal counsel. If found guilty, the penalty for methamphetamine distribution for the first time could result in a prison sentence of 10 to 40 years and fines of up to $500,000. It is essential to consult an experienced attorney who can protect your rights and work to reduce or dismiss the charges against you.

• 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.