Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Temple

FAQs

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

  The local police station of Temple provides non-emergency dispatch through the number 254-298-5500.

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

  A request can be made through the online public portal at https://cityoftempletx.nextrequest.com/. Incident reports can also be obtained at the police station located at 209 E. Avenue A in Temple. Contact the records section at 254-298-5575 for more information.

• What is the most committed crime in Temple?

  Property crime has the most number of recorded violators. Theft is the top offense committed by criminals in the area. For violent crimes, assault remains the highest reported felony in Temple. Minor crimes mostly committed in the city include vandalism or willful destruction of property.

• What is the difference between expunction and nondisclosures in Temple?

  The difference between expunction and nondisclosure in a Temple case is the basis of qualification and their effect on the criminal record. An expunction hides offenders' criminal records from the public and they can continue like the conviction is not there. On the other hand, a nondisclosure or sealing conceals some offenses from the public but not to government agencies which are also prevented from revealing such offenses to the public.

• Is a convicted individual required to register as a sex offender in Temple?

  Yes. The Texas sex offender registry law requires convicted individuals to register with the local law enforcement in Temple. This program involves the official listing of the basic information of the sex offender, including the gender, name, address, colored photo, and the violation. Sex offenders are mandated to report annually and authenticate the accuracy or update changes in the data. Failure to register as a sex offender in the city can result in penalties that include serving time in a state jail.

• How should a person choose a criminal defense lawyer in Temple?

  When looking for a criminal defense lawyer in Temple, consider factors such as track record, relevant experience, and assertiveness. Testimonials from previous clients and the strategies used by the lawyer are some of the things to evaluate in a lawyer. The ability to provide clear guidance and formulate a plan of action must also be considered in a lawyer.

• How can persons in Temple obtain a criminal background check on themselves?

  A person in Temple can obtain a criminal background check on themselves by requesting a record from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Crime Records Division. Call 1-888-467-2080 to schedule an appointment with Fingerprint Applicant Services of Texas (FAST) which is needed when requesting a record from DPS. A name-based search can also be done through the Texas State Records website, which is a privately owned online public record search tool.

• 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.