Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Austin

FAQs

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

  Call 311 to report non-emergencies to the local police station in Austin, Texas.

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

  Visit https://services.austintexas.gov/police/reports/alt_search.cfm to obtain a copy of the police report related to a case in Austin Texas. Contact 512-974-5212 or 512-974-5499 for further assistance.

• What happens to a person who is convicted as a criminal in Austin, Texas?

  If someone is convicted as a criminal in Austin, Texas, they may face legal penalties that are determined by the severity of the crime they have committed. These penalties may include fines, probation, loss of Second Amendment rights, revoked licenses, or even imprisonment. The specific consequences of a criminal conviction depend on the circumstances surrounding the crime and the individual's criminal history.

• What happens if an immigrant commits a crime in Austin, Texas?

  Immigrants who commit crimes in Austin, Texas, may face obstacles in obtaining a change in their immigration status and may even be subject to removal or deportation from the United States. It is recommended to seek the guidance of an attorney who is experienced in both immigration and criminal defense law to navigate these complexities. Lawyers can help assess the situation, explain the potential consequences, and develop strategies to mitigate the impact of a criminal conviction on an immigrant's legal status.

• Is it possible for a person to erase their criminal record in Austin, Texas?

  In Austin, Texas, it is possible for a person to erase their criminal record through the expungement process. However, only individuals who meet certain eligibility criteria are allowed to do so. This may include those who have been found innocent or acquitted at trial. The specific requirements for expungement can vary, making it important to seek legal advice.

• Is it legal to carry a gun in Austin, Texas?

  Based on Texas laws, Austin residents who are 21 years old and above and do not have a license are allowed to carry a handgun openly or concealed in public places, except for certain prohibited areas such as schools, hospitals, parks, airports, and courthouses. However, in public universities, only concealed handguns are allowed for safety reasons, and only licensed individuals are permitted to carry them. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in criminal charges.

• Under what circumstances can a person accused of a crime in Austin, Texas justify self-defense in a criminal case?

  In Austin, Texas, a person accused of a crime can justify self-defense in a criminal case if they used the minimum amount of force necessary to protect themselves and if the force was required to prevent someone else from committing unlawful acts against them. Additionally, the individual invoking self-defense must not have initiated the attack and must not have been involved in any illegal behavior. If these conditions are met, a successful self-defense claim may be possible.

• 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.