Maplewood Criminal Defense Lawyers

It is understandable to wonder what a lawyer might cost in your Maplewood criminal case. While the cost of legal counsel might feel like an expense, it is helpful to look at it as an investment. Hiring the right attorney could give you the best chance of avoiding any penalties resulting from a criminal conviction.

The way that attorneys bill for their services can vary. In criminal cases, lawyers frequently bill by the hour. This involves setting an hourly rate and then tracking the amount of time your lawyer spends on your case. The specific hourly rate depends on a few factors like the attorney’s name recognition or experience. Attorneys might also take cases for a flat fee, meaning they charge a single lump sum payment to handle a case from start to finish.

There is a wide range of consequences that can come with a criminal conviction in Maplewood. The extent of these penalties will depend on a few factors, including whether you have been charged with a felony or a misdemeanor. Misdemeanors carry a maximum jail term of one year, where as felonies can be much longer. Steep monetary fines are a possibility for both type of offense.

There are also additional consequences depending on the type of offense you face. You could have your driving privileges suspended if you are convicted of DUI, or you could face mandatory sex offender registry after a rape conviction. There are also collateral consequences to be aware of, like the loss of voting rights or the inability to get a job.

It is worth remembering that while these penalties are serious, they only come into play if you are convicted. You have the right to defend yourself at trial, and a successful outcome could help you avoid any penalties or a mark on your criminal record.

You have the ability to seek the dismissal of the criminal charges against. That said, these efforts are not always successful. Two different parties have the power to have your case dismissed, but they will not do so without a good reason.

In some cases, your attorney might be able to negotiate a dismissal of your charges with the prosecution. The state ultimately decides whether or not to prosecute your case, but they will generally move forward without a compelling reason to drop your charges. Your attorney might be able to show them that it is unlikely they are successful at trial based on the weakness of the evidence against you.

The judge that oversees your case also has the power to dismiss it. They will generally not consider this issue on their own, but your attorney can file a motion asking the judge to drop the charges. This outcome is most likely in situations where some or all of the state’s evidence has been excluded at trial.

You are the only person that can determine if they need to hire a lawyer to defend against criminal charges in Maplewood. You are not obligated to do so, but there are many benefits that come with relying on legal counsel. Your lawyer could review the facts of your arrest to determine the best possible defense strategy.

When it comes to having an attorney, there are few situations where their support is more important than trial. Your lawyer can ensure your evidence is admitted and your witnesses are prepared.

Many criminal charges are ultimately resolved with plea bargains. The state is not obligated to make you an offer, but they are common in virtually every type of criminal case. The important thing to remember is that not every offer is worth accepting. Your attorney can help you identify if a plea bargain is in your best interests.