Did you know there are over 1 million drug-related arrests annually in the United States? If you are facing a drug crime offense, it’s crucial that you hire an attorney to help you navigate your case. However, there are specific questions you need to ask your prospective drug crime lawyer.

We have put together a brief guide that tells you everything you need to know about finding the right drug crime attorney. Let’s take a look.

1. What Is Your Level of Experience?

You want to be sure that your prospective attorney has experience handling drug crime cases. This type of offense is unique, and you need someone who knows the ins and outs of the law.

This will play a substantial role in determining what type of results you can get. Although working with an experienced attorney doesn’t always mean that you won’t reach your goals, they will be less likely to do so.

Be sure that you keep this in mind when moving forward.

2. How Many Cases Have You Handled?

In addition to the level of experience, you also want to ask your prospective attorney how many cases they have handled. This will give you a better idea of whether or not they are familiar with drug crime offenses. If they have only worked on a handful of cases, they may not be as prepared as someone who has handled dozens or even hundreds.

Of course, should also consider their track record. An attorney who has handled a large number of cases likely won’t be able to meet your needs if they do not have a high success rate.

They should have no issue providing you with information about this topic. After all, reputable attorneys would be proud to show off their expertise.

3. What Are the Likely Outcomes of My Case?

No attorney can guarantee a specific outcome, but they should be able to give you an idea of what to expect. A good drug crime attorney will be honest with you about the potential outcomes of your case. They will also be able to tell you what the best and worst-case scenarios are.

This will help you to better prepare for what’s to come.

4. What Is the Likelihood of Going to Trial?

In some cases, drug crime offenses can be resolved without a trial. However, this isn’t always the case.

Before you move forward, you need to know the likelihood of going to trial. This will help you to better prepare for what’s to come. If your attorney believes that there is a good chance of going to trial, they will begin preparing you for this possibility.

5. What Are the Potential Penalties?

If you are convicted of a drug crime, you could be facing serious penalties.

These could include jail time, probation, and/or a fine. You need to know what the potential penalties are before you move forward with your case.

This will help you to understand better what’s at stake and how to best prepare for your defense. For instance, those who are looking at significant criminal punishment will need to have a much better legal defense.

6. What Is Your Billing Structure Like?

You also need to know how your prospective attorney plans on billing you.

Some attorneys bill by the hour, while others may charge a flat fee. There are also some who work on a contingency basis.

This means that they only get paid if you win your case. Be sure to ask about the billing structure before you make your final decision. The last thing you want is to encounter financial surprises during your case.

7. How Do You Plan on Communicating With Me?

Communication is key when working with an attorney.

You need to know how your prospective attorney plans on communicating with you. Will they be available by phone, email, or in person?

How often will they update you on the status of your case? These are essential questions to ask before you make your final decision. So, don’t neglect your obligation to look into how you can expect to communicate with them.

8. What Are My Available Options?

After you have asked the above questions, you need to ask your prospective attorney what your available options are.

They should be able to tell you what they believe is the best course of action for your case. This will help ensure that you get the best possible results and minimize the chance of a negative outcome.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Common red flags to watch out for when meeting with prospective drug crime attorneys include:

• They guarantee a specific outcome
• They are not forthcoming about their experience
• They are not willing to answer your questions
• They do not seem prepared
• They are not available when you need them

If you encounter any of these red flags, it’s important to move on to another attorney. These are not signs of a good attorney and could end up costing you in the long run.

You Should Always Hire the Right Drug Crime Lawyer

Hiring a drug crime lawyer is a big decision. Be sure that you ask the right questions before you make your choice. This will help you to understand better what’s at stake and how to best prepare for your defense.

Want to learn more about what we can do? Be sure to reach out to us today and see how we can help you.

The post 8 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Drug Crime Lawyer appeared first on Patton Law Office - Attorneys for Kenosha & Racine.

Facing criminal charges is understandably a challenging and daunting experience. A criminal charge can result in jail time and damage to reputation and future prospects (ex-cons typically find it difficult to find gainful employment).

If you or someone you love is facing criminal charges, it is essential that you partner with an experienced and reputable criminal defense lawyer. In this blog post, your expert team at Patton Law will highlight how to choose the best ‘criminal defense lawyer near me’.

This includes ensuring that they have the necessary experience to handle your case, knowledge of local laws, strong reviews and referrals, and are responsive and communicative. Let’s get started.

Ensure They Have the Necessary Experience

It is essential that you choose a criminal defense lawyer that has experience with the crimes you have been charged with. Modern criminal law is incredibly complex and you will find that many lawyers specialize in one or more specific types of offenses.

Not every lawyer will specialize in the charges you are facing, so take the time to check that they are able to competently handle your case. It is appropriate to enquire during your consultation about the specific experience that a lawyer has in relation to your charges. Be wary of a lawyer who appears vague or unsure during a discussion about your charges.

Here at Patton Law, we are your expert criminal defense team in Kenosha and Racine counties. We offer legal representation for a range of criminal defense cases. These include:

• Drug crimes
• Sex crimes
• Violent crimes
• Computer and internet crimes
• White-collar crimes (e.g. financial crimes)
• Property crimes
• Probation violations
• Post-conviction motions
• And more

We will be happy to discuss your case in detail and outline how we are able to help, as well as answer any questions you may have, including about our relevant experience.

Opt for a Local Criminal Defense Lawyer

As we have highlighted, criminal law is complex and can differ significantly from state to state and county to county. Even if the same laws are in effect within a state, the specific procedures may differ between individual courthouses.

That’s why it is highly recommended that you choose a criminal defense lawyer who has experience in criminal law in your area. A strong knowledge of procedures and relevant personnel within the area in which you have been charged is a key asset when looking to hire a criminal defense lawyer.

For example, certain counties may have a no-plea-bargaining policy for a specific offense, while another nearby county may not have this in place. Unless you hire a lawyer with local experience, your case may not be handled in the most opportune way.

Read Reviews and Ask for Referrals

One way to learn about the strengths and weaknesses of a criminal defense lawyer is to read online reviews. These days, it is easy to find reviews about companies through search engine results, business websites, and social media.

Take the time to weigh up the general consensus from a number of reviews, instead of taking just one or two reviews as gospel.

Another way to gain an understanding of a particular criminal defense lawyer or firm is to ask for a list of referrals. These are past clients of a firm who are happy to speak about their experience.

This gives potential clients an opportunity to hear unbiased feedback from someone with direct experience. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and form a better understanding of whether or not they are suitable to handle your case.

If you know of anyone who has recently faced criminal charges themselves, such as a family member, friend, or neighbor, it’s also worth asking for recommendations. They may be able to put you in contact with someone they trust to help you with your case.

Consider the Personal Factor

Criminal cases can be lengthy, especially if they go all the way to trial. Therefore, it is advised that you partner with a lawyer with whom you feel a rapport. During your initial consultation with a lawyer, you should gauge their personality and determine if you feel personally comfortable with them.

During your case, it is important that you feel listened to and are a full partner in the decision-making process. You should feel that you are able to talk openly with your lawyer on any issue about your case and feel listened to.

Look for a lawyer that is able to explain complex laws in a way that is easy to digest and understand, particularly if you have no prior experience with legal cases. Furthermore, look for a lawyer who shows a genuine desire to help you, rather than someone who views you as just another client or just another case.

Choosing the Best Criminal Defense Lawyer

The bottom line is that you should choose a criminal defense lawyer who has experience, knowledge, and empathy. The outcome of your criminal case may have a big bearing on your immediate and long-term future, so it is worth investing time and effort in the selection process.

The above information and advice will help you to find a lawyer well-suited to handling your specific criminal defense case. As highlighted above, in Kenosha and Racine counties, your premier choice is Patton Law.

Our experienced attorneys are here to provide skilled legal advice and representation when you need it. Contact our team today to schedule an appointment to discuss your case.

The post How to Choose the Best Criminal Defense Lawyer appeared first on Patton Law Office - Attorneys for Kenosha & Racine.

Sex crimes are no light matter. 1.2 million Wisconsin adults have experienced at least one act of sexual violence in their lifetime. One-third of women and one-fifth of men have experienced violence.

This means that prosecutors are extremely aggressive with sexual abuse cases. If you’re accused of sex crimes, you need to take the initiative so you don’t go to jail. Your first step should be finding an attorney.

But what can an attorney do for you? How does an attorney talk to the police and prosecutors? How do they build a case, and what can they do to reach a plea deal?

Answer these questions and you can start your strong defense against sexual assault and similar charges. Here is your quick guide.

Handling the Police and Judge

If you get arrested for a sex crime, it is very important that you do not talk to the police. Anything you say will be used against you in a trial, even innocuous remarks or simple questions. Call a sex crime attorney right away.

An attorney can talk to the police on your behalf. They can obtain documents like witness statements and arrest records that you can use to assert your innocence.

Sex crimes in Wisconsin can be misdemeanors or felonies. If you face a misdemeanor charge, you will go in front of a judge for an initial appearance. At the hearing, you can submit a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.

If you have not hired an attorney prior to your initial appearance in court, you should do so before you go in front of a judge. Consider your options for a plea.

If you face a felony charge, you will have an initial appearance followed by a preliminary hearing. At this hearing, an attorney can argue to a judge that there is no probable cause for your charges and get them dismissed.

Your lawyer can also help you make bail. If you do, follow the instructions that your judge gives you, and do not contact anyone related to your case. Do not make any public comments about the allegations against you.

Investigating the Case

A lawyer has plenty of time to investigate sexual assault charges. In addition to paperwork from the police, they will look at other documents.

If the accuser went to the hospital, they can look at their medical paperwork. Your lawyer can examine the results of DNA tests and rape kits.

They can also look at the accuser’s statements to the police. Your lawyer can point out contradictions and juxtapose their remarks with surveillance footage and other evidence.

You need to hand over records related to the incident. This may include videos, emails, and text messages, which can describe intimate details.

However, your lawyer is bound by lawyer-client confidentiality. They cannot reveal any details to anyone unless you give them permission to do so. Be as open as possible and do not delete anything related to your charges.

Your lawyer should have access to the information that prosecutors will present, and vice versa. Take a look at the information that will be used against you. Think about arguments you can make, and explain things that your lawyer may be confused about.

Negotiating With Prosecutors

Your attorney may talk with prosecutors about potential plea deals. Your attorney or the prosecutor may start the negotiations. There are several types of deals you can agree to.

You may plead guilty to misdemeanors in exchange for felonies being dropped. This may let you avoid jail time and a felony record.

You may plead guilty to felonies, but your penalties are reduced. You may only go to jail for a few months, or you may need to be on probation and perform community service.

A no-contest plea means you accept a conviction on your charge. However, you do not admit to being guilty. A no-contest plea cannot be used against you in a civil sex crime lawsuit.

Consider a plea carefully. Even if you plead guilty to a misdemeanor, you may face jail time, and you will have a criminal record. You may need to register as a sex offender, which can hurt your job and housing opportunities.

If a prosecutor offers you a deal, you should think about what that means. It may suggest that they do not have enough evidence to support a conviction. If you feel your prosecutor’s case is weak, you should decline the deal and push for a trial.

Representing You in Court

Your lawyer will prepare you for court appearances. They’ll tell you how to dress, behave, and speak to a judge. If you are going to testify in court, your attorney will give you advice on what to say and how to answer questions.

Follow your attorney’s lead in court. Let them talk to the judge, courtroom officials, and other lawyers for you. Take notes on what your lawyer is saying so you know what is going on, and ask them questions if you seem confused.

You still have options if you are convicted. Your lawyer can prepare an appeal for a new trial or a revocation of your conviction. They can also represent you during the sentencing process and keep you out of prison.

Defending You From Sex Crimes

If you get charged with sex crimes, you need an attorney. They can talk to the police so you don’t incriminate yourself. They can fight for you at bail and preliminary hearings, getting your charges dismissed.

Your lawyer will then investigate the case and mount a defense for you. They can handle negotiations with the prosecutor and keep you out of jail. If you get convicted, they can launch appeals right away.

The sooner you get an attorney, the sooner your defense can begin. Patton Law Office serves Kenosha and Racine residents. Contact us today.

The post How Do Attorneys Handle Sex Crimes? appeared first on Patton Law Office - Attorneys for Kenosha & Racine.

Around 1.16 million adults are arrested every year for drug-related criminal charges. However, drug charges are not all equal, and every state handles these charges differently.

As with any crime, drug crimes are no joke. Instead, the law takes them seriously, which means you’ll need legal help if you face drug crimes.

So if the police currently want you for drug charges, you shouldn’t ignore this matter. But what should you do?

Here is a guide to help you learn what to do when the police want you for drug crimes.

Understand Your Rights

First, it’s always vital to understand your legal rights regardless of the legal system’s charges against you. These legal rights are the same whether you face drug possession charges or charges for selling drugs.

Your first right is the right to remain silent. If the police are free to question you, you have the right not to answer the questions. The purpose of this right is to allow you to avoid admitting guilt to the crimes.

Secondly, you have the right to an attorney. It would help if you always had a criminal defense attorney when facing charges. If you can’t afford one, you can ask the court to appoint one for you free of charge.

Having an attorney is a legal right every person facing criminal charges can and should use. After all, navigating through the criminal law process isn’t simple, especially when facing your first charge.

Additionally, you have the right to a trial. You’re not guilty of the charges until the court convicts you.

Knowing your rights is imperative when you find out the police want you for drug crimes. You can talk to a criminal defense lawyer to learn more about these rights.

Investigate the Charges

Next, you might want to investigate the charges. If you know the police are after you for illegal drugs or any other drug charges, how did you find out?

You might know if the police come to your home. After all, they might leave a note on your door stating they have a warrant for your arrest. You might also know if the police call you or your friends.

It doesn’t matter how you find out about the charges. The important matter is that you know the police want you for them. When you learn about this, you can investigate the charges.

For example, you could call the courthouse or jail to ask about the warrant. They can tell you about the charges and other details. You might also find information on the local court’s website.

The goal is to learn the charges against you, so you know what you’re up against.

Hire a Criminal Lawyer

Another way to investigate the charges is by hiring a criminal lawyer. A criminal lawyer can investigate the charges for you. They can also learn more details about the charges.

Therefore, it would help to contact a criminal law firm immediately. You can tell the attorney what you know about the charges and ask for advice.

The attorney might recommend a few things, including your right to remain silent. If you haven’t talked to the police yet, your lawyer might set up a meeting to discuss the matter. Your lawyer will attend this meeting.

Your lawyer will also determine how to proceed with the drug crime charges.

Build a Defense

One thing criminal lawyers do is build defenses for their clients. To minimize your drug crime penalties, your lawyer might do one of the following:

• Build a defense that proves your innocence
• Work on a plea agreement to minimize the charges
• Help you fight the case to minimize the penalties

Based on the evidence and facts, a skilled criminal defense lawyer will know which route to take. Your lawyer might also consider your criminal record when choosing a course.

Consider Hiring a Bail Bond Agent

Another thing you might need to do is to hire a bail bond agent. However, you’ll only need this if you expect the police to arrest you for the charges.

For example, do you have a warrant for the charges? If so, you might need financial assistance from a bail bond agent to pay the required bail money. Otherwise, you’ll be stuck in jail if you can’t pay bail.

Even if you don’t have a warrant, the police might decide to arrest you for the charges. Therefore, you might want to work out an agreement with a bail bond agent before this happens.

By working it out ahead of time, you’ll have this part covered when the time comes.

Turn Yourself in for Drug Crimes

If there is a warrant for your arrest, your criminal lawyer will recommend turning yourself in at the jail.

Turning yourself in doesn’t admit guilt to the crime, but it settles the warrant, allowing you to avoid the humiliation of an arrest in front of your friends, family, or kids.

The court might also respect you more if you turn yourself in rather than avoid the warrant. In fact, failing to surrender can only complicate your case.

Your arrest initiates the criminal case against you, and you can work with your attorney to determine how to proceed with the charges.

Seek Legal Help Right Away

Facing drug crimes is a serious offense, and you’ll need to seek legal help right away. An experienced criminal attorney can help you determine the best course of action for the charges and can help you get the best outcome.

Contact us at Paton Law Office, S.C. in Kenosha, WI, if you need legal counsel for drug crimes. We have experience handling drug-related charges and can help you fight these charges.

The post What to Do if You’re Wanted for Drug Crimes appeared first on Patton Law Office - Attorneys for Kenosha & Racine.

Reports say 20 people are abused per minute each day in the United States. If you find yourself in this situation, it is vital to know when to hire a domestic violence defense lawyer.

If you are the one facing domestic violence charges, it is also important to hire a domestic violence defense law firm with attorneys specializing in this area of law. A domestic violence defense lawyer will have the experience and knowledge to help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights.

What are some reasons you may need to hire a family lawyer? In this article, we’ll explore some key factors to consider when making this decision.

Understand Your Charges

Your decision to hire a domestic violence defense lawyer depends on the charges against you. If the charge is a misdemeanor, the process will be less complex than if you are facing felony charges.

Misdemeanors are punishable by up to one year in jail. Felonies can result in prison sentences of five years or more. If you’re not sure what charges you’re facing, your lawyer can help you understand the charges and the potential penalties.

Severity Of Allegations

The next factor to consider is the severity of the allegations against you. If there are serious injuries or a weapon involved, the stakes are much higher. In these cases, it is essential to have an experienced family law firm on your side. A domestic violence defense lawyer can investigate the allegations and work to secure a favorable outcome in your case.

Case Jurisdiction

Another key factor to consider is the jurisdiction in which your case will be tried. If you are facing charges in federal court, the process will be different than in state court. A domestic violence defense lawyer who is familiar with the laws in your state can better navigate the legal process in your state and protect your rights.

Minimize Consequences

When you are facing domestic violence charges, you want a lawyer who can help minimize the consequences. A domestic violence defense lawyer can help you do this by negotiating a plea deal with the prosecutor.

A plea deal can result in a reduced sentence or dismissal of charges. In some cases, a domestic violence defense lawyer can also help you get your charges expunged from your record.

Navigating The Court System

If you are facing domestic violence charges, you will need to navigate the court system. A domestic violence defense lawyer can help you understand the court process and what to expect. They can also represent you in court and fight for a favorable outcome in your case.

Reduces Length of process

When you are facing domestic violence charges, the process can be long and complex. A good lawyer can help you navigate the legal system to reduce the length of the process.

Eases stress

Facing domestic violence charges is a stressful and overwhelming experience. Your law firm can help ease your stress by handling the legal details of your case. They will provide you with support and guidance throughout the process.

Protective Orders

If you are facing a domestic violence charge, the court may issue a protective order. A protective order is a court order that prohibits the accused from having contact with the victim. If you violate a protective order, you can be arrested and charged with a crime.

A domestic violence defense lawyer can help you understand the terms of the protective order and make sure you comply with the order. They can also help you have the protective order reduced or lifted.

Protects Your Rights

When you are facing domestic violence charges, it is important to hire a lawyer who will protect your rights. A domestic violence defense lawyer can make sure you are treated fairly by the criminal justice system and won’t allow your case to be tainted by false allegations or any kind of prejudice.

Investigates The Charges

A domestic violence defense lawyer will investigate the charges against you. They will also collect evidence to help you win your case. This investigation can include interviewing witnesses, collecting evidence, and reviewing police reports. A domestic violence defense lawyer can also challenge the evidence against you and argue that the charges are unfounded.

Collects Evidence

If you’ve been accused of domestic violence, it’s important to have an experienced defense lawyer on your side. Your lawyer will work to collect evidence that can help your case. This evidence can include witness statements, medical records, and police reports.

In some cases, it may also be possible to collect video or audio recordings that can help to clear your name. By carefully evaluating all of the evidence, your lawyer can develop a strong defense strategy and give you the best chance of getting a favorable outcome in your case.

Builds a Defense

Once the evidence is collected, a domestic violence defense lawyer will work to build a defense. A domestic violence defense lawyer can challenge the evidence against you and argue that the charges are unfounded. A domestic violence defense lawyer can also argue that you acted in self-defense or that the victim is not credible.

Negotiates with the Prosecutor

A domestic violence defense lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor to try to get the charges against you reduced or dismissed. They can also argue for a lenient sentence if you are convicted of domestic violence.

Easier for Children

A domestic violence conviction can result in you losing custody of your children. A domestic violence defense lawyer can help you keep your children and fight for your parental rights.

Protect Yourself, Hire a Domestic Violence Defense Law Firm

If you or someone you know is in a situation where they may need to hire a domestic violence defense law firm, please do not hesitate to reach out for help. Domestic violence can be an incredibly difficult and scary experience, but some people care and want to help. Patton Law Firm is one of those places.

We have experienced attorneys who dedicate their time and resources to helping those affected by domestic violence. You are not alone, and we will fight for you. For more information on our services or to schedule a free consultation, please contact us today.

The post When To Hire a Domestic Violence Defense Law Firm appeared first on Patton Law Office - Attorneys for Kenosha & Racine.

Lawyers. You never want to think about the possibility of needing one, but you need to be prepared for the event that you do.

In the United States, there are about 1.3 million lawyers practicing law according to the American Bar Association.

If you are charged with a crime, you are likely going to need a criminal defense lawyer. For some people, it may be a financial burden that they feel they cannot cover.

How much does a criminal lawyer cost? What should you spend on your defense lawyer?

This is your guide.

Misdemeanors

The first thing that you need to consider is what type of crime you are being charged with. These crimes fall into two main categories. These categories are misdemeanors and felonies.

In general, misdemeanors are less serious offenses and they are likely to be resolved quicker in court.

For these, it is less likely that you will have a lengthy court appearance and you are less likely to receive any jail time in this. With that being the case, you are not as likely to need a lawyer for as long of a period.

Still, lawyers are going to require that you pay them for each court appearance that you have to make. While it is unlikely that your case reaches a criminal trial stage, it could still take multiple court appearances to get a ruling.

Nevertheless, expect to pay a couple of hundred dollars for every hour that your lawyer has a court appearance with you.

Felonies

Felonies are more serious criminal cases than misdemeanors because often times, they carry a minimum jail sentence.

For example, in Wisconsin, you could face a jail sentence of 18 months for even committing the lowest level of a felony. That is 18 months of your life that you are not going to get back and even worse, it can be extended up to 3.5 years.

With these types of cases, it could end up being a more extended process when it comes to negotiating a plea and penalties. You not only need to consider the jail sentence that comes with these felonies but also the fines that you have to pay for them.

So, what does this have to do with a lawyer’s fee? You need to decide how much you care about the things mentioned above. That is because if a lawyer has to spend more time pleading your case to get your sentence down, it is likely going to be more expensive.

On top of this, you could be more likely to reach the criminal trial stage for your case.

Criminal Trial

As mentioned above, you do not want your case to reach the criminal trial stage if you want to keep your lawyer’s fee down. This is because once it reaches that stage, the process is going to be a lot more extensive.

This can require numerous appearances in court on top of arranging a jury for your case. Plus, the stakes are often higher in a trial because when you reach this stage, you are likely pleading not guilty.

What this means is that you have to go through more extensive effort to prove your case rather than just pleading guilty and negotiating a plea deal.

With that aspect in mind, you have to understand that this type of case takes a lot more time and a lot more work than a simple guilty plea that gets settled before the trial stage. Because of that, criminal trials can cost tens of thousands of dollars if your case is big enough.

Experience and Success

The next thing that you have to keep in mind is how much experience your lawyer has. Do they have two months of experience, two years of experience, or 20 years of experience?

More importantly, how successful have they been in past cases like yours? Do they come highly recommended?

These factors could play a big part in how much a lawyer is going to charge for your case.

Let’s say that you find a big-time criminal defense lawyer that won a case that made national headlines. They are likely going to be highly desired, so they will be able to charge a higher fee for their services because their demand is so high.

Compare this to a lawyer that is just starting out and trying to get some more clients and cases under their belt. They are a relative unknown and desperately need the work.

In this situation, it is possible that the lawyer will offer a discount for your case, hoping to keep your business for the long term.

Location

Finally, the location of the lawyer could come into play because of the cost of living. They may assume that people in a particular area have more money to spend on a lawyer than others.

The truth is, it also may cost more to practice law in a particular area.

For example, a lawyer could lease an office for $5,000 a month in California and $1,000 a month in Alabama. That can create urgency for the lawyer to charge a client in California five times the amount that they may charge if they were practicing law in Alabama.

Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer

While the expenses of a criminal defense lawyer may seem intimidating, the investment is worth it to clear you from this case. Whether it is to negotiate for a lighter sentence or prove your innocence, you need to have strong legal counsel in these situations.

Do you need legal representation? Message us today to get the criminal lawyer that you need.

The post Criminal Defense Lawyer: How Much Do They Cost? appeared first on Patton Law Office - Attorneys for Kenosha & Racine.

Drunk driving. It can quickly become a serious situation that can change the lives of both the driver and any potential victims of it.

While total drunk driving incidents have gone down compared to past years, there are still over 10,000 deaths related to drunk driving in the United States every year.

If you find yourself arrested for drunk driving, the first thing that you need to do is start looking for a Criminal Defense attorney.

But how do you know who the best criminal defense attorney is? Why do you need a lawyer to represent you?

This is how to find a OWI defense attorney.

Look for Criminal Defense Case Experience

The first thing that you need to do is look for a lawyer that has experience with criminal defense cases. If you find one that has sufficient experience, they are more likely to have the proper strategy on how to handle your case.

Those lawyers are also more likely to be up to date on all of the criminal defense laws that they would need to know for your case. Most importantly, they can be realistic about what you can expect from your case and how much wiggle room they have to negotiate your possible penalties.

Do not be afraid to ask questions about this past experience and look into how much success they have had with these types of cases. If you find that the lawyer has only done more general criminal defense cases, perhaps you should seek other legal representation.

Look for Local Representation

The next thing that you need to consider is if there is good local representation in your area.

A good example of this is if your criminal defense happened in another state and you already have a lawyer from your hometown that you have worked with before. While you may feel comfortable with that lawyer, you have to be aware that the laws where your incident took place may be different than the place you live.

For that reason, it is best that you find a lawyer in that local area who not only knows the local laws but also knows what the local legal system is like. They could be more likely to know how certain judges and prosecutors operate, thus coming up with the proper legal strategy on how to face them.

On top of this, it may be easier for you to have regular meetings with your lawyer if they are closer to the locations where you need to be.

Keep Cost in Mind

Unfortunately, like with everything else in life, sometimes good legal representation is just out of reach for someone financially. If you are someone that lives on a budget, you need to sit down and figure out how much you can spend on a lawyer before making your final decision to hire someone.

The question you might have is what the average criminal defense lawyer charges for this type of case. Well, according to this source, the average criminal defense lawyer can charge a retainer anywhere between $2,000 and $5,000. If an attorney decides to charge you per hour instead, that can range anywhere from $100 to $500 per hour.

However, those quotes are all assuming that your criminal defense case would get settled before needing to go to trial. For the majority of cases, you are likely going to reach a settlement.

If you happen to be one of the few people that do need a trial for your case, you better get ready to open your wallet.

Now that you have an idea of what the typical lawyer charges for a criminal defense case, you need to sit down and figure out what end of that range you can realistically afford. If you have the money for a good attorney though, do not cheap out if you think that lawyer is worth the extra money.

Reviews and References

The next thing that you need to consider is what reviews and references that the lawyer has. For the review side of the equation, you can easily Google the law firm’s name and see what past clients have written about the company. Look for a lot of four or 5-star reviews and see if any of the comments praise the handling of a criminal defense case.

Some references that you can look at are any testimonials or other people that a lawyer may mention that have spoken about them on their website.

However, the best option of all in this category may be the old-school method of relying on word of mouth. A lot of businesses still rely on word of mouth to get new business despite all of the digital marketing that is available in this day and age.

Let’s say that you had an uncle that was charged with a criminal defense a few years ago. Then, that uncle got lighter penalties from that criminal defense because of the legal representation that they had.

If you talk to your uncle in that situation, you may end up wanting to find out more about that lawyer and hire them for your case.

Find Your criminal defense Attorney

These are just four of the things that you need to consider to find the right criminal defense attorney for you. Make sure that the lawyer has enough experience, solid references, one that is local, and one that is affordable for you.

Do you need legal representation? Message us today to start setting up a consultation for your case.

The post The Best Resources for Finding a Criminal Defense Attorney appeared first on Patton Law Office - Attorneys for Kenosha & Racine.

Did you know that the crime rate in the US had a 28.64% increase compared to 2019? With crime happening right and left, who’s to say you don’t need a criminal defense lawyer?

Having a defense lawyer at the start could help ensure your freedom and save you money and time at the end of the day. Also, depending on your issue, you’ll need somebody to help protect your constitutional rights during the process.

Whether you receive accusations or charges of a crime, having a lawyer can be vital to the triumph of your case. They can shorten your sentence with a plea deal or bargain the dismissal of charges.

So, keep reading to understand when to hire a criminal defense lawyer.

What Is a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

A criminal defense lawyer is a lawyer that specializes in defending companies and individuals charged with criminal activity. This includes sexual offenses, crimes against a person, crimes against property, crimes against the public, and so on.

The lawyer will closely investigate your case and negotiate deals that may reduce your sentence, reduce charges, and reduce bails.

When Do You Need to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

If you are in big trouble with the law, there are many bases why you need to hire the best criminal defense lawyer. First, they protect your rights and brief you on what you shouldn’t tell the police to avoid self-incrimination. Moreover, a defense lawyer will ensure that none of your rights get violated by police malpractice.

When you call the police and like to question you, you should have a defense lawyer with you. Don’t ever go into inquiry or talk to the police without the presence of a lawyer. It’s an easy way to provide the police with incriminating proof that may be damaging to your case.

When you get a lawyer soon after your arrest, they can be able to arrange the dismissal of any charges against you. It could be critical because negotiation usually transpires before they conclude criminal charges. Therefore, hiring an attorney without delay could mean lower punishment or dismissal of an offense.

Throughout the trial, it’s crucial to have a backup who understands the legal procedure ins and outs. A defense lawyer will be your representative and will dispute on your behalf.

Court hearings can be distressing; if the accused argue on your behalf, they can say things that may harm their case. However, a defense lawyer will be calm to speak and argue for you, minimizing the damaging impacts.

Hiring a Criminal Defense Lawyer vs Defending Yourself

When you determine not to hire a defense lawyer, you may use a government service, a public defender. Also, you can decide to represent your behalf, pro se, and plea-bargain. However, it can’t be to your best advantage if you are facing severe criminal indictments.

It’s better to hire a federal criminal defense lawyer to ensure that the accusations against you are legitimate. It’s vital to recognize that the criminal system process is very tricky and hard to navigate if you aren’t skilled. Criminal lawyers know how to steer the system and have a bigger chance of reducing your charges.

Even though hiring an attorney looks like a price you don’t want to spend, it’s worth it in time. Having the best defense can mean the discrepancy between getting arrested with a misdemeanor or a felony. So you should hire a defense lawyer when you face criminal charges that can lead to a lengthy prison penalty.

Professional defense lawyers can get charges reduced or prison penalties cut in half. Doing it on your own with no legal lawyer can mean the difference between you spending time in prison or not. Fighting criminal indictments brought against you could be an emotional and drawn-out process.

It’s not anything you like to undergo without help. Hiring a defense lawyer guarantees that you have representation that’s in your favor. They will fight for your freedom by any means necessary.

Criminal Lawyers’ Price Is a Small Price to Pay for Your Freedom

A criminal defense lawyer’s salary is usually charged hourly for their service. Flat costs don’t account for the unforeseen factors and time set into criminal suits. Hourly charge guarantees that the lawyer has fair and reliable pay for the time they put into a lawsuit.

Hourly payment rates are not the same from attorney to attorney. Their charge depends on their experience, ability, and the conditions of your case. Usually, a defense lawyer’s hourly charge adds to a total legal bill of over ten thousand dollars.

Some lawyers will even charge a retainer price, a fee paid before they fulfill any services. Also, the retainer fee lets the counselor draw any funds required for payments as the trial continues. The charged retainer fees are for most cases concerning going to court trial or a lawsuit.

Lawyer payments are a minimal cost to spend for your freedom. It’s better to hire a more skilled lawyer who’s more costly than to skimp and hire an affordable amateur one. That few thousand dollars distinguishes you in prison and your freedom.

Furthermore, many law firms and lawyers propose payment plans when you can’t afford to pay in cash. A lawyer in criminal defense also handles pro bono cases and accepts your case for free if they take curiosity or if you are in poverty.

Get Yourself a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Criminal systems are confounding to most people. A criminal defense lawyer is proficient in criminal law that will allow you to make a defense for any indictments against you. They usually find police transgressions, which can exonerate your charges altogether.

Even if criminal lawyers are costly, you must hire one immediately as soon as you are in a legal crisis. By being ahead in hiring a defense lawyer, you are assertive in assuring that your case has the best result. Trying to defend yourself with no legal experience is pointless when many criminal lawyers are ready to accept your case.

Are you looking to hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer? Contact us now to get some answers and talk with our experienced lawyers!

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Did you know that at least 2% of rape allegations can prove to be false? What’s more shocking is that that number might be much, much higher.

Sex crimes are no joke. They cause irreparable damage to the victim and make the vulnerable feel even more unsafe. But false allegations can do devastating damage to the accused as well.

When someone accuses you of a sex crime, you stand to lose your job. You risk jail time. And even if the authorities discover that you’re innocent, the damage is done.

You need a sex crime lawyer to help you navigate these tricky waters.

In this guide, learn the seven instances when you should lawyer up.

1. Sex Crime Lawyer for Statutory Rape

Consent is essential when it comes to sex. If two adults consent, then no rape has occurred.

But when it comes to statutory rape, none of that matters. It doesn’t matter if the act was consensual, or if both parties were sober. If one of the participants was a minor, then that counts as statutory rape and could be considered a felony.

However, in many cases, you may be only a few years older than a minor. In court, they call this the “Romeo and Juliet” exception. That means that if the adult is within 3 years of age of the minor, the case may be thrown out.

Further, you may have believed you were with an adult, only to discover later that they were a minor. Sex crimes can be tricky like this. Get in contact with a sex crime attorney whatever the case.

2. Someone Has Wrongly Identified You

Human recollection is notoriously poor. Humans can forget events and misremember them. But even worse, our brains can create events that never happened.

Even in a traumatic event, people may fail to remember things. Or, they may mistake the people that were involved. Thus, a victim of sex crimes or violent crimes could mistake you as the perpetrator.

If someone accuses you of sex crimes you did not commit, get in contact with a sex crime lawyer immediately.

3. Avoid Placement on the Sex Offender Registry

The sex offender registry is possibly the most frightening prospect aside from jail time. When the authorities place you on this list, your name, address, and photo become a public record. Anyone can view this registry, and that may harm your job prospects, relationships, and community relations.

Authorities can force you to register for the sex offender registry. Failure to comply may result in penalties or worse. The registry is permanent, meaning they cannot remove you from it ever again.

If you are at risk of becoming part of the sex offender registry, contact a sex crime lawyer. This is something you need to take care of ASAP. Failure to do so may result in devastating consequences for the rest of your life.

4. Your Sexual Partner Withdraws Consent After Sex

Suppose your partner is an adult. Consent is necessary for any sexual encounter. But what if after a consensual sexual encounter, your partner claims that they never gave consent?

This is a common occurrence when alcohol and substances are involved. You may have hooked up with someone at a party while drunk. When they sobered up, they claimed that you raped them.

Unfortunately, the law is against men in this instance. Even if both parties were drunk, the man stands to suffer the penalties. One fun night out could result in serious punishment for you.

Contact a sex crime lawyer if your sex partner gave you consent, but denies it later.

5. Impact on Profession or Academics

Even if the law does not convict you for sex crimes, you still benefit from hiring an attorney. Reputation is a huge part of sex crimes, and the media and others may damage it while covering a case.

Your education or work may suffer from these accusations. You need a sex crime lawyer to understand what to do in the face of these accusations.

6. Damage to Reputation

Whether or not your case results in a conviction, there will be fallout after the fact. Whether this is the media, your local community, or the victim, people will try hard to ruin you. They may libel you, harass you, or worse.

Reputational damage is complicated. It can be difficult to know what to do. Sex crime lawyers have seen it all before, and they’ll know what steps you should take in the event of a tarnished reputation.

7. Reducing or Dropping Charges

You need a sex crime attorney every step of the way if someone accuses you of sex crimes. But nothing is more important than fighting charges. Using a state-appointed attorney doesn’t give you the best chances.

Find a good sex crime lawyer to help you weather the trial. They know all the ins and outs, and how to throw out your sentence. And if the deck is stacked against you, they can still find a way to reduce the sentence.

Find a Sex Crime Lawyer Near You

Sex crimes are serious, but just as serious are false allegations. This is not just a legal threat, it’s a threat to your reputation and everything you hold dear. You need a sex crime lawyer to ensure you survive this precarious situation.

There are a lot of lawyers out there, and it’s hard to know which ones are skilled and trustworthy. Get in contact with one who knows how to fight these types of cases.

The post 7 Reasons to Hire a Sex Crime Lawyer appeared first on Patton Law Office - Attorneys for Kenosha & Racine.

When facing criminal charges, most people worry about immediate consequences such as jail time and fines. However, some ramifications will continue to impact their life once the penalty is served.

Even if the criminal charge is dropped or the court did not find you guilty, it will still show on your record. It is possible to have it deleted once enough time has passed. Alternatively, you can choose to have it removed earlier than the regular process.

You can influence a criminal charge’s visibility in your records with the help of a criminal defense lawyer. These legal professionals will fight for your rights to get these criminal offenses dropped or reduced.

Try to drop or reduce any criminal prosecution against you as much as possible. Not only will this defend you from jail time and fees, but this will also save you from a huge amount of stress. The mental pressure and the corresponding consequences of a criminal record will hound you for the rest of your life. 

“One bad deed is enough to condemn a man to a lifetime of wickedness,” is what they would say. So if you are facing charges, get to know the adverse consequences of having a criminal record:

Employment Problems

A criminal record is a bad look on your resume and work experience. This unfavorable spot in your personal history as a citizen would make it harder for you to get a job even if you were proven innocent. In most cases, employers have the legal right to conduct background checks on potential employees. Though a negative record does not automatically disqualify you, HR can turn down your application if the circumstances of the crime are relevant to their business.

During the interview, HR and employers are allowed to ask if you have previously faced any criminal charges or convictions. All offenses are brought to attention regardless of how severe they were, including felonies and misdemeanors.

While it is recommended to answer as truthfully as possible, you don’t have to disclose every arrest made on you. Some of these do not lead to convictions and may even be removed from your records. This removal can also happen after enough time has passed.

On top of not getting hired, it will also affect your earning potential when you do get hired. Your chances of getting a salary increase are reduced if you have a questionable history. 

Complications with Children

You will have additional complications when adopting a child if you have a criminal charge on your records. Depending on the state, you are not allowed adoption if you have been convicted of a misdemeanor involving family members. The same applies if the offense involved alcohol or if you allowed a child access to firearms.

Not all hope is lost because a questionable record does not automatically disqualify you from adopting a child. The court and home study worker will take several factors into account. A few of these factors include the nature of the felony and the time passed from the conviction.

Regarding child custody, having a criminal record will make it difficult for you to get an advantage. Child custody rights become more difficult if your criminal offense includes domestic abuse and other violent acts. A misdemeanor can cause you to lose custody rights if it involves family members.

Licensing Issues

Those with questionable history can lose their right and license to drive depending on how severe the criminal charge is. Just like employment, authorities can deny or revoke a convicted individual of their license or certificate. This law applies if the circumstances of the conviction are relevant to the licensed activity. So when a person is found with a criminal charge related to driving, then they will lose their driver’s license. If a person is involved in a misdemeanor related to the practice of nursing, then they will lose their nursing license.

In line with licensing issues, a gun-related criminal charge can get your right to own a firearm revoked. The authorities will deny your firearm license if you are found with a class A domestic abuse misdemeanor or any felony. 

In Wisconsin, carrying a concealed weapon when you don’t have your license with you is considered a class A misdemeanor. This law not only applies to firearms but also covers other types of weapons such as handguns, knives, and tasers. Another class A misdemeanor is when you are spotted with a concealed firearm, no license, and in a place where alcohol is sold and consumed.

Don’t Let a Criminal Record Dictate Your Life.

Employment problems, complications with children, and licensing issues are just a few of the many adverse consequences of having a criminal record. Therefore, it is important to have these charges dropped or reduced while in pursuit of truth and justice. Work with a criminal defense lawyer so you can live the rest of your life worry-free while you enjoy the rights and privileges of a proper citizen.

About the Author

Stephanie Gordon currently works as the Content Marketing Strategist for the Arizona Criminal Law Team. Aside from spreading awareness about criminal law and defense, she enjoys reading and trail running with her family and friends.

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