Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Saint Joseph

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Saint Joseph, Missouri?

  816-271-4702 is the non-emergency contact number of the police department in Saint Joseph.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Saint Joseph, Missouri?

  To obtain police reports, you can visit the Records Division during their operating hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays. The division charges $25 per hour, plus $0.10 per page. You can also contact the office at 816-271-4705.

• What are the penalties for drug-related offenses in Saint Joseph?

  The penalties for drug-related offenses in Saint Joseph vary based on the drug's schedule classification. Possession of illegal drugs without a prescription is considered a Class C felony and can result in a fine of up to $5,000 and imprisonment for at least 1 year or 2-7 years, depending on the drug. Manufacturing, selling, or possessing CDS with the intent to sell, and trafficking CDS also have different penalties based on the amount and type of CDS involved.

• Who is eligible for expungement in Saint Joseph?

  Saint Joseph allows for the expungement of arrest or conviction records for certain misdemeanors and felonies. Individuals must wait for a specific time period to apply for expungement, which is 7 years if the case resulted in a felony conviction and 3 years for arrest records or misdemeanor convictions. After the successful expungement of a criminal record, the individual can legally deny the arrest or conviction, and it will not appear on most background checks.

• What happens to a person accused of a crime in Saint Joseph?

  Upon being arrested in Saint Joseph, the accused, known as the defendant, is brought before the associate circuit court for arraignment. During the arraignment, the court reviews the bail amount and ensures that the defendant is provided with a copy of the charges and legal representation, either by the court or the defendant themselves. A date is set for the preliminary hearing. During the proceeding, it is possible for either the defendant, the Prosecuting Attorney's Office, or the court to request a continuance, or a delay of the hearing, for various reasons.

• What happens during a trial in Saint Joseph?

  During a trial, the prosecutor representing the state from the Prosecuting Attorney's Office must demonstrate beyond reasonable doubt that the defendant committed the crime in question. While the defendant has the option to present evidence, it is not mandatory, and they cannot be forced to testify. The trial may be held in front of either a judge or a jury in Saint Joseph.

• What are the potential consequences of a DWI conviction in Saint Joseph?

  The potential consequences of a DWI conviction in Saint Joseph include fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol treatment, and even jail time. The severity of the consequences will depend on factors such as the driver's BAC, whether it is a first or subsequent offense, and whether anyone was injured or killed as a result of the driver's actions. DWI in Missouri is a criminal offense that involves operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.

• 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.