Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Richmond

FAQs

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

  The Richmond Police Department's non-emergency line is (804) 646-5100.

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

  A copy of a police report can be obtained by visiting Window 4 of the Richmond Police Information Desk in the RPD Headquarters lobby. You can also fill out a record request form and mail it, along with a $5 draft or M.O. and a self-addressed, stamped envelope, to RPD Records Unit.

• Why do you require the services of a criminal defense attorney in Richmond?

  A Richmond criminal defense attorney will defend you in court, protect your legal rights, and negotiate with prosecutors. Being accused of a crime can endanger your liberty, finances, and future. That is why your attorney will fight to have the charges against you dropped or reduced. To accomplish this, they will:

  • Carry out a private investigation;
  • Conduct eyewitness interviews;
  • Look for inconsistencies in witness statements;
  • Look into any possible police misconduct; and
  • Set up meetings with relevant experts.

• What are the potential penalties for Richmond's six felony offense classes?

  According to Code of Virginia Section 18.2-10, someone convicted of a specific type of felony in Richmond may face the following sentences: Class 1 felonies: life in prison or the death penalty Class 2 felonies: 20 years to life behind bars Class 3 felonies: imprisonment for 5-20 years Class 4 felonies: jail time for 2-10 years Class 5 felonies: imprisonment for 1-10 years Class 6 felonies: prison time for 1-5 years To achieve a reduced conviction, seek the help of a criminal defense attorney.

• What should you not do after being arrested in Richmond?

  If you've been arrested in Richmond for a crime, you should not:

  • Make any written or verbal statements to anyone;
  • Speak with the police even after your Miranda Rights have been read to you.
  • Agree to meet with investigators before meeting with a criminal defense attorney; and
  • Try to deal with the situation on your own without complete knowledge and understanding of the charges against you.

• What are the penalties in Richmond for violent crimes?

  Violent crimes in Richmond are punishable by the following: Arson: five years to life in prison Assault and Battery: one year in prison Domestic Violence: up to a year in prison Murder: five years to life in prison or the death penalty Robbery: five years to life in prison Convicted offenders may also be fined between $2,500 and $100,000. If you or a loved one has been charged with a violent crime, you should hire a criminal defense lawyer.

• How can you get a lighter penalty if you've been charged with a gun crime in Richmond?

  If you are facing weapons charges, you should hire a criminal defense attorney to help you reduce your penalties or have your case dismissed. Gun laws in Virginia, where Richmond is located, are complicated and broad, with penalties ranging from imprisonment and probation to steep fines and driving restrictions. Some of the violations you may be charged with include possessing an unregistered weapon and unlawfully transporting a gun.

• 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.