Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Cheektowaga

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Cheektowaga, New York?

  (716) 686-3500 is the non-emergency contact number for the Cheektowaga Police Department.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Cheektowaga, New York?

  Copies of police reports for incidents related to criminal cases can be obtained from the Cheektowaga Police Department, which can be reached at 716-686-3502.

• How serious is a DWI arrest in Cheektowaga and the rest of Erie County?

  In Cheektowaga, DWI is a serious offense. If convicted, first-time offenders can expect to lose their licenses, pay a large fine, and have their insurance premiums raised. A conviction may also impair an offender's ability to work or attend school. Convictions for multiple offenses can result in felony charges. Defendants may avoid a criminal record by pleading guilty to DWAI, which is considered a violation and not a crime.

• Is it always worth it to fight a traffic ticket in Cheektowaga?

  Fighting a speeding ticket in Cheektowaga is always worthwhile. By avoiding conviction, defendants avoid adding points to their driving records. A traffic ticket conviction can cost a driver hundreds of dollars in court fines, hundreds more in fines to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, and insurance increases. It can also result in court appearances and a jail sentence in some cases. Paying the fine also constitutes an admission of guilt.

• How can motorists in Cheektowaga exercise their constitutional rights at DUI checkpoints?

  Drivers in Cheektowaga can protect their legal rights at DUI checkpoints by refusing to speak with authorities in order to avoid self-incrimination. They can also show police officers a card stating that they are exercising their right to remain silent until they consult with their attorneys. Furthermore, drivers may request to be released unless they are being arrested.

• Can a defendant charged with shoplifting in Cheektowaga negotiate an adjournment in contemplation of dismissal?

  A defendant can negotiate an adjournment in contemplation of dismissal (ACD) for a first offense. An ACD provides a full dismissal of the charges in the interest of justice after a certain period of time, usually six months, as long as the defendant is not arrested again during that period.

• How much does a Cheektowaga criminal defense lawyer charge?

  Legal fees in Cheektowaga vary, and each lawyer charges different subsequent fees, which are usually agreed upon. It is recommended that defendants use a lawyer's fees calculator to determine the approximate costs that a lawyer will charge for legal services. Before signing a contract with any lawyer, defendants should compare various quotes from different law firms. Some attorneys prefer a contingency fee arrangement with their clients.

• 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.