Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Troy

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Troy is 248-524-3477.

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

  You may send an email to policerecords@troymi.gov to request a copy of your police report in Troy.

• What types of criminal charges are commonly brought before Troy's federal courts?

  Tax fraud, mail fraud, drug trafficking, and money laundering are on the list of criminal cases which are commonly taken to federal court in Troy. In addition, the list includes a range of racketeering activities, such as murder, gambling, kidnapping, arson, bribery, and robbery. A criminal defense attorney can help you handle your case.

• Can a minor face criminal charges for purchasing and drinking alcohol in Troy?

  In the US, it is against the law for anybody under the age of 21 to buy, possess, or consume alcohol. First-time offenders could face community service, fines, and substance abuse programs and screening. Subsequent offenses have harsher consequences, such as jail time. In some cases, a person could face disciplinary action and expulsion from school or university.

• Can someone use real estate property as bail in Troy?

  Yes, you may pay your bail using real estate property in Troy and other cities in Michigan. In this case, the property's value must be roughly the same as the bail amount. In addition, the court typically appoints a real estate professional to determine the value or eligibility of the property.

• What should someone bring to their initial consultation with a criminal defense attorney in Troy?

  When meeting with a criminal defense attorney for the first time in Troy, you must prepare documents related to your arrest, such as a police report or search warrant. You should also gather any communications between you and the alleged victim, including emails, texts, and Facebook chats. Information from witnesses and recordings of the arrest or any events leading up to it will also help you strengthen your case.

• How much is the bail for criminal charges in Troy?

  In Michigan, bail bondsmen are not allowed to charge their clients more than a 10% non-refundable fee to post bail on their behalf. The total bail shouldn't be unreasonable under Michigan Criminal Code 756.6. The court considers several factors when determining the amount of bail, including:

  • The gravity of the alleged offense
  • The safety of the general public
  • The offender's existsing criminal rrecord
  • The probability of the accused appearing at the trial

• 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.