Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Franklin

FAQs

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

  615-794-2513 is the non-emergency contact number for the local police state police station in Franklin.

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

  To obtain a copy of the police report pertaining to your case, you may complete a request on the Police Public Record Request Form. If you encounter any challenges while submitting your request, you can contact 615-791-3217 for assistance.

• What does Franklin, Tennessee classify as a felony crime?

  In Franklin, Tennessee, felonies are classified into five classes.

  • Class A is the most serious and can result in a life sentence, a fine of up to $50,000, or the death penalty.
  • Class B carries a maximum prison sentence of forty years with fines up to $25,000.
  • Class C includes crimes like theft and can result in a maximum of 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
  • Possession of marijuana and controlled substances can warrant a Class D felony charge, resulting in a maximum of 12 years in prison with fines up to $5,000.
  • Finally, Class E is the least severe felony class, with a maximum of six years in prison and a fine of up to $3,000.

• What are the advantages of hiring a criminal defense lawyer in Franklin, Tennessee?

  The criminal defense lawyers in Franklin, Tennessee are available to help if you are currently under criminal investigation or have been charged with a crime. You can schedule a meeting with a skilled defense lawyer who will take the time to understand your situation, provide a thorough assessment of your case's strengths and weaknesses, and fight on your behalf.

• What misdemeanor or felony crime charges do defense attorneys in Franklin handle?

  Defense attorneys in Franklin are skilled at handling a wide range of misdemeanor and felony charges. Some of the most common cases they handle include probation violations, domestic violence, drug offenses, juvenile crimes, and DUI. These attorneys also have experience defending clients against more serious crimes such as homicide, assault, theft, weapon possession, and sex crimes. They can help you navigate the complex legal system, negotiate plea deals, and work towards a favorable outcome in your case.

• What are the consequences of not consenting to take the BAC test in Franklin?

  In the case of a DUI accusation in Franklin, if a driver declines to take a BAC test, automatic consequences will be imposed. These may include revocation of their driver's license for a duration of one to five years or even permanently. However, in certain circumstances, a license revocation may not occur. The specific consequences for refusing to take a BAC test will depend on the individual's suspected DUI case and its severity.

• What rights do you have if the police came knocking at your house in Franklin, Tennessee?

  You have the right to refuse to open the door for police officers who arrive at your home in Franklin and other jurisdictions in Tennessee if they do not have a warrant. The United States and Tennessee Constitutions provide protections against warrantless searches, which apply to all residents in the state. It is important to know your rights and exercise them to protect your privacy and property.

• 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.