Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Erie

FAQs

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

  The Erie City Police Department can be reached at (814) 870-1125.

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

  To obtain police reports from the Erie Police Department, call (814) 870-1125.

• Are you legally required to reply to police interrogations after getting arrested in Erie?

  Not at all. There is absolutely no need for you to provide any statements, other than confirming if you're the person they're looking for. Law enforcement will read you your Miranda rights where it will be stated that you have the right to remain silent and that everything you say can and will be used against you.

• How much is it going to cost to hire a criminal defense attorney in Erie?

  It depends on many factors. The most common you hear about is the lawyer's skill and experience in handling cases like yours—the better they are, the higher they charge. Lawyers in Erie also have to consider the complexity of your case and the amount of time it may take to see it to the end.

• Are you still going to need an attorney in Erie if you're planning to plead guilty anyway?

  Yes. Perhaps, it would be good to remember that the prosecution does not have your best interests in mind. This means that if you plead guilty, you can almost expect that you will receive the harshest penalties possible in accordance with your charges. Having an attorney representing you in Erie will give you a fighting chance to reduce your sentences.

• Is it always advantageous to accept a plea bargain in Erie?

  Not all the time. To completely understand how accepting a plea bargain is going to impact your future, listen to what your attorney tells you. Sometimes, the prosecution puts this on the table because they know they don't have a strong case. Your Erie attorney can evaluate their case and see if they can't negotiate to your advantage, such as pushing to drop the case entirely.

• Do you need an attorney if you are innocent of the crimes they are accusing you of doing in Erie?

  The paramount reason why an innocent person in Erie would need a lawyer is to keep them from being punished for a crime they didn't commit. Unfortunately, there is a chance that you face a prosecution that is determined to establish your guilt and some pieces of evidence can work against you. When your future and your life are on the line, it will be very worth it to have an attorney by your side.

• 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.