Criminal Defense 101 – Five Things To Know

It doesn’t matter whether you actually committed the crime in question or not – facing criminal accusations is a life-altering experience. Your life as you know it may easily cease to exist, especially if you are ultimately found guilty of the allegations. 

Nothing in life is certain, and it is possible that you may end up facing charges when you least expect it. As a result, it is always best to be as prepared and educated on the subject as possible. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys in mid-Missouri are here to help you. Here are a few pieces of basic information everyone should know about Missouri’s criminal defense laws.

1. Felony Convictions Stay On Your Record Forever
According to their nature and severity, felonies in Missouri are divided into Class A, Class B, Class C, and Class D felonies. The penalties for each classification vary, but they may include hefty fines (often between $5,000 or $20,000) and significant time in prison (typically from 5 to 30 years, or even lifetime imprisonment). If you have been convicted of a felony, this record will stay with you forever. If you face charges for an other felony down the road, the Court may consider your prior conviction as grounds for a harsher punishment.

2. Convicted Felons Face Many Challenges
Most people with felonies on their records face significant challenges in several aspects of their daily lives. For example, convicted felons often have difficulty buying or renting a home, obtaining certain professional licenses, and being approved for insurance. Convicted felons also lose their right to vote and to carry firearms. Because a criminal conviction results in lifetime consequences, obtaining representation of a skilled criminal defense attorney in Pulaski County MO is essential.

3. Driving While Intoxicated Is A Criminal Defense
Most of us don’t think too much of traffic law. Speeding tickets and non-moving violations are an annoying hassle, but most people do not consider them worth getting incredibly worked up about. However, traffic violations are classified as criminal acts and may be prosecuted as such. As the violations become more severe, their punishments become harsher. Driving while intoxicated (as well as boating while intoxicated) are both serious criminal offenses that can be punished to the full extent of the law. If convicted, they will stay on your record indefinitely.

4. Criminal Defense Cases Are Rarely As Cut-And-Dry As They Seem
Due to the nature of Missouri’s criminal laws, criminal cases are almost always complicated and involved. An experienced criminal attorney in Lebanon MO will have a thorough understanding of the law and know how to use various elements to your advantage. Conflicting witness statements, questionably constitutional search issues, and complex technical testing issues are all examples of strategies attorneys can use to help you build a stronger case and tear down the prosecutor’s position.

5. Deputy & Mizell’s Attorneys Are Here For You
If you are facing criminal charges in Camden County MO, Pulaski County, Morgan County, Miller County, or one of the surrounding areas, we strongly encourage you contact the team at Deputy & Mizell, LLC. Our experienced attorneys and skilled legal staff will do everything we can to help you build a strong case and defend your legal rights. If you are facing charges or have questions about criminal law, contact our team today.

Contact Deputy & Mizell, LLC