4 Questions About Criminal Defense

If you or someone close to you is facing criminal charges, you doubtless have many questions. How will this impact your ability to find work in the future? How much time (if any) will you have to spend in jail? What is the trial process like? The experienced criminal defense attorneys at Deputy & Mizell, LLC are here to answer some of your pressing questions.

1. I didn’t commit the crime in question. Do I still need an attorney?
The short answer is yes, absolutely. Despite the best intentions of our law enforcement, innocent people can (and do) get charged for crimes they did not commit. When are facing criminal charges, however, it hardly matters whether or not you actually committed the crime in question. What matters is whether you or not you are found guilty. Your criminal defense attorney in Lebanon MO will do everything in his power to ensure that your rights and your future are protected.

2. I have been pulled over on suspicion of drunk driving. Can I refuse to take the breathalyzer test?
It is within your rights to refuse a breathalyzer test, but doing so may not be the best option. In fact, if you refuse to take the test, your driver’s license will automatically be suspended for an entire year. The fact that you refused may also be used against you in court. (Keep in mind that judges and jury members may assume that you refused to take the test because you had reason to believe that you would fail.)

However, you should be aware that agreeing to take the breathalyzer test may still result in undesirable consequences. If you fail the test, the state will have hard evidence that you were driving under the influence.

3. The police are asking me questions. Do I have to answer?
As a general rule, no – not until you have had a chance to speak with your attorney. The Constitution guarantees your right to an attorney, and the Miranda warning offers everyone the right to remain silent during the initial questioning by the police (as anything they say could be used against them in court). We strongly encourage you to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney before you speak with law enforcement officials. Your attorney will be able to coach you on what to say – and what NOT to say.

4. What is the difference between parole and probation?
While they are similar, probation and parole have some distinct differences. When a person is on probation, he has usually been assigned an incarceration sentence that will be lifted as long as certain requirements are met. For example, he may be required to meet with his probation officer on a weekly basis or attend alcohol treatment or educational programs. When a person is given parole, he has typically served a portion of his jail or prison sentence and has been given the opportunity to finish the sentence out of incarceration. Like probation, individuals on parole are required to meet certain requirements.

More Questions About Criminal Defense? Contact Us!
If you would like more information about criminal defense in Missouri and how to protect your rights in the face of criminal charges, contact our criminal defense firm in Lebanon, Camdenton, or Tuscumbia. Each criminal case is unique; our attorneys will be be able to evaluate your case and help you determine what course of action will be best for you.

Contact Deputy & Mizell, LLC