While an arrest may cause a person to panic and think only of the worst-case scenarios that may lie ahead, an arrest does not need to spell disaster. As any good attorney will tell you, an arrest does not mean you are guilty, nor does it mean your future is in jeopardy.
Still, anyone facing criminal charges can benefit from the guidance of a Jefferson County criminal lawyer. Even if you are confident in your innocence, you should not face a judge or jury without a knowledgeable attorney by your side. Call today to schedule a free case evaluation.
Criminal offenses fall into two general categories: felonies and misdemeanors. Misdemeanors are the less serious of the two. Misdemeanors fall into one of three classes: A, B, or C. Class C misdemeanors are the least serious of the three, while Class A is the most serious. When someone faces charges for a misdemeanor, the penalties they may face correspond with the class their charges fall under.
Those facing charges for Class A misdemeanors, for example, may face up to a year in prison, while those facing allegations of Class C misdemeanors may only face three months behind bars.
Felonies work in a similar fashion. These charges also fall into three classes, A, B, and C, with Class A representing the most serious crimes. The difference here lies in the gravity of charges associated with felonies. While someone who resists arrest or is caught with an open container may be arrested on misdemeanor charges, felonies are reserved for the most serious crimes. Murder, sexual assault, and domestic violence are all considered felonies in Alabama.
Defense StrategiesA Jefferson County criminal attorney can help individuals develop the defense strategy that is right for their case. In many situations, a lawyer will look to the procedures the police followed when arresting the person. Sometimes, police officers make mistakes when making arrests. If these mistakes violated a person’s civil rights, the validity of the arrest may be challenged.
Additionally, a defense attorney can help people investigate the events that led to their arrest. By thoroughly understanding the chain of consequences that resulted in charges, a lawyer can better represent the interests of the accused. There may not be a one size fits all defense strategy, but a lawyer can work tirelessly to spot inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case.
How a Jefferson County Criminal Attorney Can HelpIf you are facing criminal charges and do not know where to turn, consider reaching out to a Jefferson County criminal lawyer. In addition to the prison time and expensive fines imposed by the courts, an offense could mean the end of a successful career and put child custody rights in jeopardy. With so much on the line, it makes sense to surround yourself with dedicated representation.
Get the fair trial you deserve by calling a lawyer today. Your initial consultation is completely confidential and requires no obligation on your part. A lawyer can stand by you each step of the way.