Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Centreville

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact numbers in Centreville are (703) 691-2131 and TTY (703) 877-3715 (Fairfax County Department of Public Safety Communications).

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

  You can get a copy of a police report by sending a mail or by going to the Central Records Section of the Fairfax County Police Department located at 12099 Government Center Parkway Fairfax, VA 22035. Alternatively, you can call 703-246-2272 for any inquiries.

• Can you appeal your case if you are convicted in Centreville?

  Yes, you have the right to file an appeal once you get a conviction from a court in Virginia. You and your lawyer can file a Notice of Appeal within 30 days of the entry of the final judgment from a Circuit Court and 10 days from a General District Court. Your lawyer will review any technicalities you can use to be granted an appeal.

• How does the Centreville criminal justice system handle cases involving juveniles?

  The criminal justice system in Centreville handles juvenile cases differently from cases of adults. Juvenile cases often result in lesser penalties, such as community service, counseling, and probation. There may be instances that a juvenile can be transferred to a circuit court and tried as an adult, especially if the crime committed falls under a capital crime like first-degree murder.

• Can you represent yourself in a criminal trial, or do you need to hire an attorney in Centreville?

  Yes, you can represent yourself in a criminal case trial, but it is highly not recommended. There may be instances you can represent yourself in traffic tickets and other minor offenses that will not have a big impact on your life and future endeavors. Even if you have a deep understanding of the laws, it will be prudent to hire a lawyer to represent you.

• What are your rights during a police interrogation in Centreville?

  You have certain rights protected under the Constitution during a police interrogation in Centreville. Under The Fifth Amendment, you have the right to remain silent and not give any other details except for your name and address. You have the right to hire an attorney of your choice if you have the means.

• Is there a death penalty in the state of Virginia?

  No, there is none. The death penalty in Virginia was abolished in 2021 when Gov. Ralph Northam signed the legislation, making it the first Southern State to remove capital punishment. Before its removal, Virginia led all states in the number of executions made throughout history. The two remaining convicts on death row will be commuted to life imprisonment.

• 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.