Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Winston Salem

FAQs

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

  336-773-7700 is the non-emergency contact number of Winston-Salem Police Department.

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

  You can obtain a report through the police department's online portal: http://www.wspdp2c.org/

• What types of cases does a criminal defense attorney in Winston-Salem handle?

  Cases involving driving under the influence (DUI/DWI), drugs, assault, battery, theft, and traffic violations like driving with a suspended license are all within the purview of a criminal defense attorney in Winston-Salem. A person's chances of having their criminal case resolved favorably are improved by working with a criminal defense attorney.

• How can a criminal defense attorney in Winston-Salem assist you if you are facing charges for driving with a suspended license?

  An experienced criminal defense attorney in Winston-Salem can assist you by analyzing the particulars of your case, compiling the available evidence, and developing a solid defense strategy. They could also negotiate with the prosecutor to have the charges against you reduced or seek a more favorable plea deal on your behalf.

• Can you defend yourself against DWI charges in Winston-Salem?

  Yes, you should take proactive measures to protect yourself from DWI accusations in Winston-Salem. Effective defenses may include explaining a false positive, challenging the stop, and contesting the field sobriety test, which may result in the dismissal of your case. Experienced criminal defense attorneys can assist you in identifying the best defense strategies and fighting DWI charges on your behalf.

• What are the penalties for cybercrimes in Winston-Salem?

  Many cybercrimes in Winston-Salem are felonies, and the federal government can investigate and prosecute crimes that affect interstate or foreign commerce or occur across state lines or international borders. Penalties vary according to the nature and severity of the crime, but a conviction for any cybercrime can result in prison time, large fines, and possibly being required to register as a sex offender. If you are charged with any type of cybercrime in North Carolina, you should seek the advice of an experienced defense attorney as soon as possible.

• What are the most common types of cybercrime in Winston-Salem?

  Cyberbullying, sexting, online scams, and identity theft are common in North Carolina, including Winston-Salem. It's important to remember that cybercrime can take many forms, and the prevalence of specific types of cybercrime varies depending on location, demographics, and other factors. If you have specific concerns or questions about cybercrime in Winston-Salem, you should speak with local law enforcement or a legal professional who has dealt with cybercrime cases in that area.

• 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.