When to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Hawaii

Getting arrested or charged with a crime in Hawaii can be an incredibly stressful and frightening experience. Even if you believe you are innocent or the charges are minor, having an experienced criminal defense lawyer represent you is absolutely critical.

Navigating Hawaii’s complex criminal justice system alone against seasoned prosecutors would be extremely unwise and could lead to devastating consequences. Just one conviction can destroy your life – resulting in massive fines, probation, jail time, criminal records, and more.

This article will provide an overview of key times when legal counsel is essential, potential defenses, Hawaii laws and penalties, and most importantly – what makes certain criminal defense attorneys stand out. The goal is to arm you with information to make the best decision possible if facing prosecution in Hawaii.

When Should You Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Hawaii?

Here are some key situations when you need to hire legal counsel immediately:

• You are contacted by police or prosecutors regarding an investigation
• You are arrested and jailed, even if no formal charges yet
• Officers attempt to interrogate you about alleged crimes
• Your property or electronic devices are searched
• There is a warrant issued for your arrest
• You are accused of violating probation or parole
• You are facing charges like DUI, domestic violence, assault, etc.
• You are charged with any felony or federal offense

Never attempt to handle any criminal case alone without an attorney in your corner. The stakes are immense.

Overview of Potential Defenses

Experienced criminal defense lawyers will thoroughly examine the specifics of your case to identify potential defenses. Some examples include:

• False accusations or mistaken identity – Your lawyer can work to prove allegations are false or the wrong person was identified.
• Illegal search and seizure – If evidence was obtained illegally through improper searches, it may be excluded.
• Self-defense – For assault and other charges, self-defense is a possible affirmative defense if force was necessary.
• Mental competency – Defendants unable to understand charges or assist in their defense may use mental incompetency defenses.
• Alibis – You may have an alibi proving you could not have committed the crime.

There are many other possible defenses depending on the details of the case. A skilled criminal lawyer will pursue every avenue to build the strongest defense possible.

Overview of Key Hawaii Criminal Laws and Penalties

To understand the critical need for legal counsel, it helps to review some common Hawaii criminal laws and potential sentences if convicted:

• Assault – Misdemeanor assault up to 1 year in jail. Felony assault up to 5 years in prison.
• Drug Possession – Up to 5 years in prison for Schedule I and II drug possession like cocaine and heroin.
• DUI – Up to 30 days in jail for first offense misdemeanor DUI. Felony DUI can mean up to 10 years in prison.
• Theft – Petty misdemeanor theft under $100 may mean 1 year probation. But felony theft over $300 could result in 5 years in prison.
• Sex Crimes – Convictions can lead to long prison terms and sex offender registration.

These serious penalties demonstrate why skilled legal representation is so critical. Let’s examine how to pick the best lawyer.

Choosing the Best Criminal Defense Lawyer in Hawaii

When researching criminal defense attorneys, keep these tips in mind:

• Look for extensive criminal law expertise and experience with your specific charges. Avoid lawyers who dabble or focus on other legal areas.
• Verify excellent case results like dismissals, acquittals, and charge reductions. This proves their ability to defend clients.
• Ensure lawyers have great reputations among local judges, prosecutors and fellow attorneys. This commands respect.
• Find lawyers who are candid in initial consultations and discuss options realistically, not just tell you what you want to hear.
• Compare past client reviews on Google, Facebook, Avvo and other sites. Look for consistent positive feedback.
• Ask about their resources like investigators, forensic experts and legal staff access. This bolsters cases.
• Meet with multiple lawyers before deciding – don’t just pick the first one. Compare qualifications.
• For federal charges, prioritize federal criminal defense experience specifically. The experience is critical.

Vet each attorney thoroughly – your future hangs in the balance. The right lawyer makes all the difference in the world.

Key Times to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Let’s recap the most essential times to hire counsel:

• You Are Contacted by Police – If questioned or contacted about an investigation, politely decline to answer questions and immediately call a lawyer.
• You Are Arrested – If arrested and taken into custody, invoke your right to remain silent until your attorney is present. Never confess anything to police.
• You Are Charged with a Crime – Being charged with any misdemeanor or felony means you should hire counsel right away. Don’t delay.
• You Violated Probation or Parole – If accused of a violation, experienced lawyers can often negotiate alternatives to jail time.
• There is a Warrant for Your Arrest – With a warrant issued, turn yourself in with your lawyer present to start mounting a defense.
• You Are Charged with a Federal Crime – Federal cases call for federal criminal defense lawyers with experience in federal court.

Conclusion

If you are facing criminal prosecution in Hawaii, having an accomplished criminal defense lawyer is absolutely vital given the severe penalties at stake. Going it alone without experienced counsel against tough prosecutors is extremely unwise.

The elite Hawaii criminal defense attorneys have the skills, experience, resources and track record of positive case results to build the strongest possible case. They can make the difference between a conviction and charges dropped or reduced.

Don’t take chances with your future and livelihood. Contact a top Hawaii criminal defense lawyer immediately if you are facing prosecution.