Criminal Defense FAQs

When you’re thinking about hiring a lawyer from Logue Law Group, it’s important to have some essential information upfront. This guide will walk you through common questions.

Should I Talk to the Police Before I Hire an Attorney?

It is strongly recommended that you avoid speaking with the police until you have a Wellsburg criminal lawyer present. Remember that anything you say can potentially be used against you in court. The best course of action is to politely state that you are exercising your right to a Wellsburg DUI attorney and decline to answer any questions. This protects your interests and ensures you don’t unintentionally harm your case.

What if the Police Want to Search My Car or Home?

For the police to legally search your home, vehicle, or your person, they generally need a written search warrant issued by a judge. You have the right to refuse a search if they do not present a warrant, even if you feel pressured by the officers. It’s important to know, however, that there are exceptions. For instance, police can conduct a search without a warrant if they have probable cause to believe a crime is being committed or if you give them your consent. A skilled Wellsburg criminal lawyer can help you understand if a search was legal.

Do I Need a Lawyer for a Minor Offense?

Even for what seems like a minor charge, it is almost always beneficial to have one of our experienced Wellsburg DUI attorneys with you when you appear before a judge. An attorney can clearly explain the charges you are facing and work to minimize potential consequences like fines or jail time. While you might not need legal representation for something minor like a simple traffic ticket, having an expert on your side for other offenses can make a significant difference in the outcome.

What is the Difference Between a Felony and a Misdemeanor?

Misdemeanors are considered less serious crimes than felonies. The most severe classification, a first-degree misdemeanor, can lead to a maximum jail sentence of up to five years. Felonies are much more serious offenses and carry harsher penalties, with some resulting in imprisonment for up to 20 years or more. Understanding the distinction is crucial, as the classification of your charge will heavily influence the legal strategy an attorneymight use.

How Much Should I Tell My Attorney?

It is absolutely vital to tell your Wellsburg criminal lawyer every single detail related to your case. Complete honesty and accuracy provide your lawyer with the information they need to construct the strongest possible defense for you. Even details that seem small or insignificant can be crucial. Hiding information or failing to disclose everything puts your attorney at a major disadvantage, especially if the truth comes out during plea negotiations or at trial.

Anything you share with your lawyer is confidential and protected. Your attorney is legally forbidden from sharing this information with anyone else, including your family, without your explicit permission. This protection, known as attorney-client privilege, means that prosecutors and police cannot listen to your conversations or use what you’ve discussed with your attorney against you. This privilege begins the moment you start discussing your case with a lawyer at our Wellsburg firm, even if you ultimately decide not to hire them.

How Much Will My Defense Cost?

The total cost for your legal defense will depend on several factors. These include the overall complexity of your case, the amount of time your Wellsburg criminal lawyer must spend in court advocating for you, and the time needed for thorough case preparation, research, and strategy development. We will provide a clear breakdown of potential costs.

Is Jail Time a Possibility?

Jail time could be a potential outcome, but it depends on the specific charges you face, the facts surrounding the case, its severity, and the defense strategy your attorney develops. The Wellsburg DUI attorney assigned to your case will dedicate their full effort to securing the most favorable outcome possible for your situation. Their goal is always to protect your freedom and minimize any potential penalties.

Reach out to us at 844.PITT.DUI for your better assistance.