Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Kent

FAQs

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

  The police non-emergency number in Kent is 253-852-2121.

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

  Police and arrest records may be requested from the Kent City Police Department at 232 4th Ave S, Kent, WA 98032 and reachable at 253-856-5800. If one's records are not there, they could be with the Kent City Clerk at 220 4th Ave S, Kent, WA 98032. reachable at 253-856-5725.

• What are the safety guidelines that criminal suspects in Kent must follow when accused by the police?

  When accused of a crime or arrested by the police, a resident of Kent must maintain the right to remain silent and refuse to answer questions. This right against self-incrimination extends to written and signed statements. It is paramount to hire a lawyer immediately to formulate a defense strategy as soon as possible.

• What are the reliefs available to individuals who have been convicted of a crime in Kent?

  Individuals who have been convicted of a crime in Kent can seek a variety of remedies beginning with an appeal before the higher courts. It is also possible to seek a modification of the sentence to take advantage of lighter penalties. One who has done time may file a petition for the expungement or sealing of records to reduce the social burden of a penal past.

• How can criminal suspects in Kent obtain legal assistance if they are strapped for cash?

  Criminal suspects in Kent can seek free legal assistance from the King County Department of Public Defense. This is subject to a financial interview and screening process to determine if one's monetary situation is dire enough to qualify. If the individual only needs advice over the phone, the department also has hotlines listed on its website for dispensing simple advice without retaining services.

• What are the common flaws in the prosecution's evidence that criminal defense attorneys in Kent will use to defend their clients?

  Criminal defense attorneys in Kent will often contest the evidence of the prosecution by scrutinizing police reports and detecting any inconsistent or nonsensical entries that would affect the probative value of these records. Lawyers are also adept at finding holes in witness testimonies and pointing out conflicts with the official documents of the investigating officers.

• What must a criminal defendant first show to the courts in Kent in order to claim a violation of the right to a speedy trial?

  A criminal defendant in Kent must follow state precedents, which require the defense to demonstrate that the government failed to act promptly during the proceedings. The right is generally based on negligent conduct on the prosecution's part and neither delays introduced by the defendant nor ordinary motions, even if numerous.

• 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.