Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyers
Being charged with a crime is always a bad experience, no matter the circumstances. An experienced criminal defense attorney is essential to prevent such a bad situation from growing much worse. One of the focuses of our practice at The Lackey Law Firm is easing the worry brought on by an arrest by providing each and every client with as strong a defense as possible.
Criminal Defense FAQ’s
If you have been arrested in Huntsville, Scottsboro, or surrounding areas in North Alabama, you may have many questions which you need answered. The information below is intended as a guide to cover a few initial and frequently questions. To discuss specific details related to your case and to see how The Lackey Law Firm can fight for you, please contact our office as soon as possible for a free consultation.
What is a preliminary hearing?
A preliminary hearing is a court hearing before a district judge which is held only in felony cases. A written request for such a hearing must be made within 30 days of the initial arrest, or the right is lost. Because of this, it is vital that you seek legal representation as soon as possible when charged with a felony. This hearing may be your only opportunity to question witnesses in your case prior to trial.
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?
A felony is generally considered a much more serious crime than a misdemeanor and carries heavier punishment. There are different classes of felonies and misdemeanors in Alabama depending upon the severity of the offense a person is charged with. Class A offenses are the most serious while class C offenses are least serious in general. Misdemeanors carry a possible jail sentence of 12 months or less along with possible monetary fines and other penalties. Felony sentences in Alabama range in time from 1 year and 1 day up to life in prison. The death penalty is also still a possibility in Alabama. Felonies may also carry monetary fines or other penalties.
Should I give a statement to the police if I may be suspected of a crime?
When asked, we generally advise our clients to NOT give a statement to police or investigators if suspected of a crime, without consulting with us about their rights first. If you have been arrested or believe you are suspected, you may need legal advice and we recommend that let us evaluate your situation.
Can you keep me out of jail?
Oftentimes, yes. Our goal is to always obtain the least restrictive outcome possible for every client charged with a crime. The first step in that process is attempting to get the charges dropped or get an acquittal. The second step, if the first step cannot be achieved, is to prevent jail or prison time for our clients. Every case and client is different and many factors can affect your individual case, including criminal history, the severity of the crime, the amount of evidence against you, and more. There are no guarantees in criminal defense, other than that we will fight our hardest for you. No lawyer should ever promise a client they will not spend any time in jail.
Experience Matters
Following an arrest, it is crucial that you know your rights. Our lawyers will help you navigate the details surrounding your arrest and trial. Our goal is always to provide each client with the least restrictive outcome possible. While we can make no promises as to the outcome of your case, we promise to fight hard for an outcome that is beneficial to you.
Many factors play into a criminal conviction including your criminal history, evidence, the severity of the crime, and much more. We offer free criminal defense consultations where we will look at these factors and provide you with insight into your case. Call our office today to schedule your consultation.