Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Greenville

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Greenville, North Carolina?

  The non-emergency phone number of the Greenville Police Department is 864-271-5333.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Greenville, North Carolina?

  If you need a copy of a Greenville police report, you may call Public Records at 864-467-5257.

• What should you do if you were arrested for a crime in Greenville?

  If you were arrested in Greenville, the first and most important thing you should do is to keep quiet. You have the constitutional right to remain silent, and it would be wise of you to use it, as anything you say or do can be used against you in court. You must also contact a criminal defense attorney to help you protect your rights and guide you through the legal processes surrounding your arrest and charges.

• Do you have to return to court if you are released on bail in Greenville?

  Yes. Even if you have already posted bail in Greenville, you must still appear in court. This is because, during your bail hearing, another court date will be set for you, requiring you to reappear to move forward with your case so the solicitor’s office can pursue the charges against you.

• If your previous convictions in Greenville be used against you in court?

  It is possible for your prior convictions to be used against you in a Greenville court if you get arrested in the future for a criminal matter. But it does not necessarily mean your past convictions will be used against you in court. It will still depend on the exact nature of the previous conviction, whether it is relevant to the criminal case you are currently facing, and how long ago your prior conviction was.

• Do you still need a lawyer if it is only your first DUI in Greenville?

  While you may represent yourself after getting a DUI in Greenville, it is advisable that you enlist the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney instead. The law will not be forgiving toward you even if it is your first drunk driving offense. So for the best chances of preserving your driving privileges and avoiding serving time in jail and hefty fines, retaining a lawyer would be your best course of action.

• Will you get deported if you get convicted of a crime in Greenville?

  Getting a criminal conviction is serious for anyone in Greenville, but it can be especially devastating if you are not a US citizen. You could lose your immigration status and be deported. Fortunately, non-US citizens also enjoy all of the constitutional protections that US citizens have, which means if you are accused of committing a crime, you are innocent until proven guilty, you have the right to remain silent, and you are free from unreasonable searches and seizures. Retaining a skilled criminal defense attorney can protect your immigration status and preserve your ability to stay in the US.

• 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.