Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Denton

FAQs

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

  To reach the Denton Police Department, call (940) 349-8181.

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

  To obtain a police report from the Denton Police Department, click the link below:

  https://justice1.dentoncounty.gov/PublicAccess/default.aspx

• What are the penalties for trespassing in Denton?

  Trespassing is generally classified as either a Class B or C misdemeanor in Denton, but the nature of this crime almost always means that it is coupled with other charges such as breaking and entering. When this happens, the charge is automatically upgraded to much harsher sentences such as jail time for up to 1 year and paying a fine of up to $4,000.

• What are some factors considered in getting penalized for credit card-related crimes in Denton?

  We first have to know whether the charge is going to be a misdemeanor or a felony. For a credit card-related crime in Denton to receive harsh sentences, the offender must have used another person's card without consent, pretended to be the owner of the card, or skimmed the card information and then used it to make purchases.

• Can minors in Denton be tried as an adult?

  Minors in Denton who are aged 18 and below who have committed either a misdemeanor or a felony will be tried in a civil court. Usually, this results in the offending minor being put on probation, detention, house arrest, or ordered to perform community service. However, if the crime was a serious felony, the child can be tried as an adult if they are more than 14 years old and can face maximum penalties just like an adult would.

• Do you always have to go to court in Denton if you are charged with a crime?

  Most likely, yes. If you were reported for a crime in Denton, you will have to answer the charge in court. If you don't want to go to court, you can hire the aid of an attorney who can see if there is a way to have the charges dropped or dismissed entirely.

• Is there a certain attorney attribute that makes one a better option than the others in Denton?

  Yes, there is. If you have the resources for it and you are determined to fight your case through to the end, it would be wise to acquire the help of a criminal defense attorney in Denton who is a former prosecutor. These lawyers know how the other side operates and develops their case, and will be able to think a few steps ahead of the prosecution (the party that wants you in jail) since they've done that job before.

• 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.