The Top Criminal Defense Attorneys in Lafayette County
Finding yourself in need of a criminal defense attorney can be an incredibly stressful and overwhelming experience. You want to find someone who is not only highly competent in criminal law, but also someone you can trust to fight for your best interests. This article will highlight some of the top-rated criminal defense lawyers practicing in Lafayette County, so you can make an informed decision when choosing legal representation.
What Makes a Great Criminal Lawyer in Lafayette County?
When searching for a criminal defense lawyer, there are a few key qualities that you should look for. Some of the top traits of the best attorneys include:
- Extensive experience handling criminal cases similar to yours – Look for attorneys who regularly take on cases like DUI, drug crimes, theft, etc. Familiarity with your type of case is key.
- Strong litigation skills – Criminal defense lawyers need to be aggressive advocates in court. Make sure they have a proven ability to argue motions, cross-examine witnesses, negotiate plea deals, and more.
- Knowledge of local courts and prosecutors – Understanding the local legal landscape in Lafayette County is a major advantage.
- Commitment to clients – The best lawyers are available nights and weekends, keep clients informed, and truly care about getting the best results.
On top of these traits, it’s important to find a criminal lawyer with whom you have a good personal rapport. You want someone who listens to you, answers all your questions, and makes you feel comfortable discussing sensitive details related to your case.
Top Criminal Defense Law Firms in Lafayette County
1. The Law Offices of Robert Smith
With over 25 years of criminal law experience in Lafayette County, Robert Smith leads one of the top-rated criminal defense firms in the area. He takes on cases involving both misdemeanors and felonies such as DUI, drug crimes, domestic violence, and more. Attorney Smith is praised for his courtroom skills and ability to negotiate favorable outcomes like reduced charges or dismissed cases. His team of associates ensures clients get responsive and personalized service. Learn more about The Law Offices of Robert Smith.
2. Davis & Johnson
The criminal defense attorneys at Davis & Johnson represent clients facing a wide range of charges including drug offenses, sex crimes, white collar crimes, and juvenile cases. Founding partners Sandra Davis and Tyrone Johnson are both former prosecutors, so they have insight into the prosecution’s strategies. Clients give high marks to the firm for being accessible and aggressively defending their rights. Davis & Johnson also handles related matters like expungements and appeals. Learn more about Davis & Johnson.
3. The Franklin Law Group
Attorney Tanya Franklin leads this boutique criminal defense firm focusing on providing personalized attention and high-quality representation. Attorney Franklin is a strong negotiator who has succeeded in getting charges reduced or dismissed for many clients over her career. She takes time to explain the legal process to clients and provides compassionate counsel. The Franklin Law Group handles misdemeanors and felonies including drug crimes, internet crimes, weapons charges, and more. Learn more about The Franklin Law Group.
Key Factors in Choosing a Lafayette County Criminal Lawyer
As you evaluate criminal lawyers in Lafayette County, here are some important factors to keep in mind:
- Experience – Look for substantial experience handling your specific type of criminal matter. An attorney who mainly handles DUIs may not be the best choice for a complex white collar crime, for example.
- Resources – Make sure the attorney has the resources and manpower to thoroughly investigate, research, and litigate your case. Solo practitioners are often at a disadvantage here.
- Results – Ask attorneys about their track record of getting charges reduced or dismissed, avoiding jail time, and other favorable outcomes.
- Cost – Rates and fee structures can vary greatly, so get quotes from multiple lawyers before deciding.
Be sure to ask prospective lawyers plenty of questions at an initial consultation to get a sense of their experience, communication style, fee structure, and more. Never hesitate to interview multiple criminal defense attorneys in Lafayette County before making your decision.
Overview of Common Criminal Charges in Lafayette County
To help you understand the types of criminal cases that lawyers in Lafayette County handle, here is an overview of some of the most common charges:
Drug Crimes
Drug charges like possession, distribution, trafficking, and manufacturing account for a significant portion of the criminal caseload. Depending on the type and quantity of drugs involved, penalties can range from fines and probation up to lengthy prison sentences. A skilled drug crimes lawyer can often negotiate reduced or dismissed charges.
DUI
In Lafayette County, a first-time DUI conviction typically carries up to 6 months in jail, 5 years probation, and a 90-day driver’s license suspension. Penalties escalate for repeat offenders. An attorney can sometimes get DUI charges reduced to reckless driving or other lesser offenses to avoid a criminal record.
Theft
There are varying degrees of theft charges in Lafayette County, ranging from misdemeanor petit larceny to felony grand larceny. Punishments vary based on the value of property stolen and other factors. An attorney can argue mitigating circumstances and seek alternative resolutions like restitution programs.
Assault
Lafayette County prosecutors pursue many types of assault charges, including domestic violence, aggravated assault, and assaulting a police officer. Jail time is common, especially for repeat offenses. An experienced criminal lawyer can often get charges reduced in plea bargaining.
Sex Crimes
Sex crime allegations must be handled extremely carefully given the devastating potential penalties and social stigma. Skilled defense lawyers can thoroughly investigate claims, fight to exclude prejudicial evidence, and advocate for reduced charges if appropriate.
How a Lafayette County Criminal Lawyer Can Help
Facing criminal prosecution can be an extremely unsettling experience. Here are some of the ways a good criminal defense attorney can help:
- Conduct a thorough investigation of your case to identify weaknesses and build the strongest defense
- Negotiate with the prosecution to get charges reduced or dismissed through plea bargaining
- File motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence and otherwise fight the charges in court
- Present expert witnesses and other testimony to counter the prosecution’s case
- Advocate for alternative resolutions like pretrial diversion programs whenever possible
- Argue persuasively for minimal penalties if convicted, including avoiding jail time
In addition to handling the legal aspects of the case, a good criminal lawyer provides invaluable guidance and support as you navigate the criminal justice process. Always exercise your right to an attorney if facing criminal prosecution in Lafayette County.
The criminal defense attorneys highlighted in this article are recognized for providing aggressive and effective representation for clients facing a wide range of criminal charges in Lafayette County. Take time to research and find the right lawyer for your particular situation. Your future could depend on it.
[1] Google Maps[2] Justia – Lafayette County, MO Criminal Lawyers
[3] Justia – Lafayette County, MS Criminal Lawyers
[4] Avvo – Lafayette County, MS Lawyers
[5] FindLaw – Lafayette County, MS Criminal Defense Lawyers