What Are The Common Types Of Criminal Cases
That Your Firm Handles?

The most common criminal cases that we handle are serious felonies such as murder, murder second degree, and manslaughter. We take on other serious charges such as assaults, same type of degree, robberies, home invasions, unlawful gun and weapon possessions, forgeries, fraud, white collar crimes, federal drug possession, drug trafficking, felon in possession of weapon, RICO violations and it goes on. We handle misdemeanor criminal cases such as assaults, stealing, shoplifting, illegal possession of marijuana, DWI, driving revocation violations, prostitution, gambling, traffic matters and a host of criminal charges.

How Is A Charge Determined To Be Either A Misdemeanor Or A Felony?

Misdemeanors carry a maximum punishment of up to one year. By comparative standards the punishment for felonies range from 2 years within the Department of Corrections or even the penalty of death. A misdemeanor’s penalty is less severe in terms of punishment, it can be a serious mark on your record that may present you from fully engaging in opportunities, i.e. job/work, applying for security clearances with the government, and perhaps a denial of federal financial aid. It’s less serious than a felony but it is a serious matter to say the least.

What Happens After Someone Is Arrested And Then Released Either on Bail or Own Recognizance?

After someone is released, there would be a series of court appearances that you and your attorney will need to appear, as a condition of your bond. During that period the attorney engages in a process called discovery, i.e. getting police reports, the laboratory analysis of the drug or weapon alleged to have been used in the offense; the identification of witnesses against you, and disclosure of all mitigating evidence. This period also allows for the attorney to engage in negotiations with the prosecutor. These negotiations can lead to a plea bargain for something less of a severe charge and penalty. Often a refinement of the strategy to be used in trial is learned after and during negotiations. Our goal is to work the case as thoroughly as possible to ensure that the client is in position to make a choice that is in his or her best interests.

How Does A Prior Arrest Or Conviction Impact An Ongoing Criminal Case?

Prior arrest means very little in terms of determining the charge. Prior arrest can be limiting in terms of other opportunities, i.e. employers checking your arrest record to determine your reliability. We are seeing this increasingly as time passes. You can have your arrest records expunged to correct this injustice. You can be arrested and that case may never make it to court or it could get thrown out. It is not a conviction and therefore it cannot be used against you in any manner to enhance punishment or to tear down your credibility as a witness. A conviction on the other hand can be used to enhance punishment. Many times, a prior conviction will play a role in whether the defendant chooses to testify on his behalf. The reason being once the defendant takes the stand, the prosecutor can bring that prior conviction to the attention of the jury. This is done to make you appear less believable in the jury’s eyes.

What Important Things Should People Know Once They Are Charged With A Crime?

The most important thing is not to say anything. The United States Constitution guarantees you a right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Stand on your rights. Many cases go against the defendant simply because they try to talk their way out of the matter. You cannot talk your way out of a criminal matter. The police will promise you certain things but by law they cannot promise you favorable treatment or the avoidance of it by confessing. Avoid any request to speak other than an insistence on an attorney. The constitution requires that you be told that you have a right to an attorney before making a statement. Do not give those rights away by trying to talk your way out of it. It will not happen.

For more information on Criminal Cases In Missouri, a free initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (314) 786-3536 today.

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