Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Gresham

FAQs

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

  503-823-3333 is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Gresham.

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

  To request police records, submit an online request at https://gresham.formstack.com/forms/police_records_request. For additional information, please reach out to GPDRecords@GreshamOregon.gov or call 503-618-2318.

• What should you do if you've been arrested in Gresham?

  It's critical to contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible if you've been detained or charged with a crime in Gresham. The outcome of your case can be greatly impacted by having an accomplished defense attorney on your side. An experienced criminal defense attorney can provide legal guidance, protect your rights, and help build a strong defense strategy to obtain the best possible outcome for your case.

• What will be your sentence if you're convicted in Gresham?

  The severity of a sentence for a criminal offense in Gresham depends on several factors, such as the type of crime committed, previous criminal records, and other factors that may have aggravated or mitigated the crime. Misdemeanors have a maximum incarceration period of up to one year and fines ranging from $1,250 to $6,250, while felonies carry maximum sentences of 5 to 20 years in prison and fines of $125,000 to $375,000. A defendant's criminal history and the seriousness of the crime determine their placement on the Oregon felony sentencing grid.

• What are the common homicide-related charges in Gresham?

  In Gresham, charges related to homicide may include first and second-degree manslaughter, vehicular homicide, criminally negligent homicide, attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, aggravated murder, and felony murder. The prosecutor holds the burden of proof to demonstrate guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, not the defendant to prove their innocence. Having an experienced defense attorney is essential in safeguarding your rights and achieving a favorable outcome.

• What types of convictions can affect your professional license or certification in Gresham?

  Convictions for traffic violations, sex offenses, personal crimes, and felonies in Gresham can lead to significant collateral consequences that may impede certification and licensing for certain occupations. To mitigate the impact of a conviction on your employability, it's crucial to seek assistance from a criminal defense lawyer who can negotiate with licensing boards and authorities. They can present mitigating evidence to the court or licensing board to demonstrate that you remain qualified to perform your professional duties.

• Can you clear your record of prior arrests and convictions in Gresham?

  In Oregon, certain arrests and convictions can be "set aside," which means they are legally treated as if they never occurred. This applies to most violations, misdemeanors, and some B-Felonies and C-Felonies, but not traffic offenses or most sex offenses. A defendant can represent that they have never been convicted of the offense, with a few exceptions. If an old criminal conviction is limiting opportunities, it's best to speak with a Gresham criminal defense attorney to determine eligibility for setting aside the conviction.

• 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.