Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Wichita Falls

FAQs

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

  940-720-5000 is the non-emergency contact number of the Wichita Falls Police Department.

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

  You can get a copy of a police report from the Records Division of the Wichita Falls Police Department from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Records Clerk Section provides clearance letters for $5.00, offense reports for $.10 per printed page, crash reports for $6.00, and certified copies for $2.00 per document.

• What rights do you have if you've been charged with a crime in Wichita Falls?

  If you have been charged with a crime in Wichita Falls, some of your rights include the following:

  • The right to consult a lawyer and to keep quiet. Show identification, but refrain from saying anything else, even defending your innocence.
  • The right to respect and compassion from others. Don't engage in physical resistance or give them any other justification to treat you disrespectfully.
  • A right to solitude. Even if you are entirely innocent, don't let the cops into your house without a search warrant.

• Which crimes have Wichita Falls attorneys addressed the most frequently?

  Criminal defense attorneys in Wichita Falls frequently represent clients facing felony and misdemeanor charges for offenses like domestic abuse, drunk driving, traffic infractions, forgery, embezzlement, and disorderly conduct. Additionally, they deal with cases involving narcotics possession and child pornography offenses, including producing and disseminating illegal still photographs and movies.

• How can you leave jail after being detained in Wichita Falls?

  When you are arrested in Wichita Falls, bail in the form of a monetary sum may be imposed in return for your freedom until your trial. The amount of bail is determined by the sort of offense you have committed and, if applicable, your prior criminal record. You will be released from jail after paying the fine as long as you agree to appear in court for your subsequent trial.

• What separates a felony from a misdemeanor  in Wichita Falls?

  In Wichita Falls, misdemeanors are typically punished by a fine and up to a year in jail. Felonies, on the other hand, usually come with lengthy prison terms and high financial penalties. In addition, these are frequently shown to a grand jury. Whether you are charged with a felony or misdemeanor in Wichita Falls, you need a criminal defense attorney you can rely on.

• Do you require a Wichita Falls criminal defense attorney?

  Hiring a Wichita Falls criminal defense attorney is not legally needed, but it is strongly recommended. You run the danger of overlooking crucial details about your case that could aid you if you decide to represent yourself. A skilled criminal defense attorney in Wichita Falls can assist you in putting together the strongest argument possible for your particular case.

• 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.