Criminal Defense FAQs

When you’re thinking about hiring a criminal defense attorney from Logue Law Group in Bedford, there are several important things you should understand about the legal process and your rights.

Should I Talk to the Police Before Getting an Attorney?

You should never speak with law enforcement officers without having legal representation present. Everything you say can and will be used against you in court proceedings. The best approach is to politely refuse to answer their questions and clearly state that you want to speak with a Bedford speeding ticket attorney. This is your constitutional right, and exercising it cannot be held against you.

What Happens When Police Want to Search My Property?

Law enforcement officers must obtain a written search warrant from the court before they can legally search your home, vehicle, or person. You are not required to consent to any search without this warrant, even if officers attempt to pressure or intimidate you into agreeing. However, there are specific circumstances where they may conduct searches without warrants, such as when they have probable cause or if you give explicit consent. A skilled Bedford traffic lawyer can explain these exceptions and help protect your rights.

Do I Need Legal Representation for Minor Charges?

It’s generally wise to have one of our experienced criminal defense attorneys represent you when appearing before a judge, regardless of the charge severity. Your attorney can provide comprehensive explanations of the charges against you and work to reduce fines and potential jail time. For very minor infractions like basic traffic violations, legal representation from a Bedford traffic lawyer might not be absolutely necessary, but it can still be beneficial.

Understanding the Difference: Felony vs Misdemeanor

Misdemeanors are considered less serious criminal offenses compared to felonies. The most severe category, first-degree misdemeanors, can result in a maximum jail sentence of up to five years. Felonies, however, are much more serious and can lead to imprisonment for up to twenty years or more, depending on the specific offense and circumstances involved.

How Much Information Should I Share With My Attorney?

Providing your criminal defense attorney with every single detail about your case is absolutely crucial for achieving the best possible outcome. Being completely honest and accurate gives your lawyer the necessary tools to build the strongest possible defense on your behalf. Even seemingly insignificant details can make a substantial difference in your case strategy. A Bedford speeding ticket attorney needs all the facts to effectively represent you.

Failing to disclose important information or withholding details from your attorney puts them at a significant disadvantage, particularly during plea negotiations or trial proceedings if the truth eventually comes to light. Remember that complete transparency with your legal counsel is essential for effective representation.

Your conversations with your attorney are completely confidential and legally protected. Your lawyer is legally prohibited from sharing this information with anyone, including your family members, without your explicit written permission. Additionally, prosecutors and police officers cannot listen to or use any conversations between you and your attorney against you in court.

This protection, known as attorney-client privilege, becomes effective immediately when you begin discussing your case with a traffic lawyer at our Logue Law Group, even if you haven’t officially decided to hire them yet. This privilege ensures that you can speak freely and honestly about your situation without fear of legal consequences.

What Will My Defense Cost?

The total cost of your criminal defense depends on several factors, including the complexity of your specific case and the amount of time your Bedford speeding ticket attorney needs to spend in court representing you. Additional factors include the time required for case preparation, research, witness interviews, and other necessary legal work.

More complex cases involving serious charges typically require more extensive preparation and court time, which affects the overall cost. Your attorney will provide you with a clear understanding of expected costs during your initial consultation.

Is Jail Time a Real Possibility?

Whether you face potential jail time depends on multiple factors, including the specific charges against you, the facts surrounding your case, the severity of the alleged offense, and the defense strategy your Bedford traffic lawyer can develop and implement on your behalf.

The criminal defense attorney assigned to your case will work diligently to achieve the most favorable outcome possible given your circumstances. This might involve negotiating reduced charges, seeking alternative sentencing options, or fighting the charges in court if necessary.

Each case is unique, and outcomes can vary significantly based on the specific details involved. Your Bedford speeding ticket attorney will provide you with realistic expectations about potential outcomes and work tirelessly to protect your rights and freedom throughout the legal process.

Don’t wait to get the legal support you need—call us today at 844.PITT.DUI for a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your future.