Woodland Criminal Lawyer
If you are accused of a crime in Woodland, your first step in dealing with the charge is to secure a Woodland criminal lawyer with courtroom experience defending those accused of crimes. Criminal defense lawyers rely on facts, evidence, testimony, and other details to prove the innocence of their clients.
Every person accused of a crime in the United States has the right to seek legal representation. The attorneys of Crowell Law Offices are familiar with the area, people, laws, and local court system, which can make it much easier to successfully navigate the process. Our lawyers are experienced, know the ins and outs of the legal system, and will help you fight for your legal rights.
Innocent Until Proven Guilty
In the United States of America, the burden of proof is on the prosecution. While you may be detained under suspicion of a crime, you have the right to due process.
Due process consists of the steps that need to be taken in order to legally prosecute someone, and it includes many different elements. Although the prosecution has the burden of attempting to prove your guilt, the defense has the burden of refuting the evidence presented.
If due process is not followed correctly by respecting all of your rights, the case itself may have no validity in a court of law. Your Woodland criminal lawyer will ensure that you are treated fairly and that your rights are upheld.
Misdemeanors vs. Felonies
There is an enormous difference between misdemeanors and felonies. While you certainly want to avoid being convicted of both, felonies carry the more severe penalties and can have a lasting impact far beyond your official punishment.
However, it’s important not to brush off a misdemeanor because you want to keep your record as clean as possible. Plus, misdemeanors can accumulate and lead to a “habitual offender” charge that turns a misdemeanor into a felony.
Consequences of a Felony Conviction
Some of the issues that can arise after being convicted of a felony are listed below, but there are far more beyond these:
- Loss of citizen’s rights, such as being unable to own firearms or vote
- Reduced employment options
- Limited housing and schooling opportunities
- Costly fines
Other consequences of a felony conviction include being considered a “serious criminal” and establishing a record that may have an impact on future legal issues. These charges and their outcome can follow you for years afterward—possibly even the rest of your life.
It’s crucial to your future that nothing be overlooked in formulating your defense. An experienced Woodland criminal lawyer from our firm will ensure you get the best possible outcome according to both the law and your rights.
Types of Criminal Charges
There are many different types of crimes and criminal charges that may require the help of a Woodland criminal lawyer. Some of these criminal charges include the following:
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI) – Even if you were guilty of drinking and driving, you might have better options than you think. It’s important to your future that you explore all possibilities and plea bargains.
- Domestic Violence – If you are being accused of domestic violence, we can help you get justice and clear your name.
- Assault – If you have been accused of assault, you need an experienced lawyer to handle the charge on your behalf.
Other types of criminal charges that we may be able to help you with include arson, burglary, and trespass charges. If you face any type of criminal charge—even if you aren’t sure if you are guilty or innocent—you will have the best opportunity for fair and legal treatment if you have an experienced Woodland criminal lawyer on your side.
Risks of Not Having an Attorney
In America, you have the right to legal counsel. Conversely, you also have the option to represent yourself. The problem with doing so is that the court will give you no special treatment in regards to your lack of legal knowledge and courtroom experience. They will treat you just as they would a lawyer and will not offer you legal advice pertaining to your case.
An experienced Woodland criminal lawyer will know exactly what to do and how to handle all the procedural details like filing forms at the correct time and in the proper order, negotiating plea bargains, and managing other legal details that can make a tremendous difference to the outcome of your case.
So while you could represent yourself in court, you risk facing consequences that you wouldn’t with a criminal defense attorney on your side. You simply have too much at risk to gamble on going to court without retaining a Woodland criminal lawyer.
Woodland Criminal Defense FAQ
It’s normal to be nervous and concerned for your future after being charged with a crime, whether you were innocent or not. What follows are answers to a few of the questions we get asked on a regular basis. If you don’t see your question, please call us and speak with a Woodland criminal lawyer.
Why should I retain a criminal defense lawyer instead of working with a public defender?
While many public defenders are excellent attorneys, they are often overbooked and will be unable to give your case their full attention. By retaining your own legal counsel, you ensure that your case will be given the attention it requires.
What can I do if I’m guilty of the crime I’ve been charged with?
Even if you think you’re guilty, a criminal defense lawyer can still help you. It may be possible to get your charges reduced through a plea bargain. Depending on the charge, it may also be possible to commute your sentence into community service, as well.
If I’m a first-time offender, can I get my charges reduced?
First-time offenders are often shown leniency in court, so it’s entirely possible to get your charges reduced or to plead for a lighter punishment than what a repeat offender’s would be.
Work with a Woodland Criminal Lawyer
Regardless of the type of criminal charge you face, it’s easy to think you don’t have a chance. However, there is hope, and you could have a stronger case than you realize, especially if you have the right legal team on your side. The lawyers at Crowell Law Offices know how to navigate the legal system and have the experience required to successfully manage your criminal case.
When criminal law is involved, you’re at risk of expensive fines and even of losing your freedom. Even if you think you might be guilty of the charges against you, it’s important that you consult a capable Woodland criminal lawyer. If you are facing a criminal charge, complete the form below or call us at 916-303-2800 to discuss the details of your case free of charge.