Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Pearland

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number of the local police station in Pearland is (281) 997-4100.

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

  Requests for copies of Pearland police reports must be made in person at:

  Pearland Police Department 2555 Cullen Boulevard Pearland, TX 77581 Phone: (281) 997-4100

  Incident search may be conducted on the department's website at https://p2c.pearlandtx.gov/Summary_Disclaimer.aspx.

• What should you say to Pearland police when they interrogate you?

  Police inquiries do not require an answer from you. Your responses may be used against you if you have been charged with a crime. Even if the Pearland police claim that you are not a suspect, there is no reason for you to respond to their inquiries, and doing so could result in issues.

• What if you were not guilty of the offense for which you were accused in Pearland?

  False charges are frequent, and they result in incorrect convictions. Do not rely on the Pearland police or the prosecution to independently discover the truth. Do not assume that by merely explaining what occurred, they will accept your account. You will need to struggle to establish your innocence and shield yourself from the consequences of being found guilty of a crime. A knowledgeable lawyer can make sure that the truth is out and that your voice is heard.

• If you are being prosecuted for a misdemeanor in Pearland, do you need to hire a lawyer?

  Yes. Underestimating misdemeanor charges can be a costly mistake. Although imprisonment may not be on the table, the actual consequence of a misdemeanor is not the monetary penalty but the indelible blemish on your criminal history. A competent criminal defense lawyer in Pearland can uncover vulnerabilities in your case. In certain situations, accusations may be thrown out, preventing a conviction from appearing on background screenings.

• What should you do if you are being investigated in Pearland?

  Proactively finding an experienced attorney is crucial when you're under criminal investigation. Regardless of whether the Pearland police have labeled you as a suspect, it's possible that an arrest could be imminent. Finding a criminal defense attorney ahead of time can help ensure that you have someone who can provide guidance and legal representation when needed.

• How long does it take in Pearland to get a preliminary hearing?

  In most cases in Pearland, a preliminary hearing happens soon after you have been officially charged. The Federal Speedy Trial Act requires that preliminary hearings take place no later than 30 days after the defendant has been arrested, but defendants have the option to "waive time," which means delaying preliminary hearings until all the key participants in the case are present.

• 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.