Frequently Asked Questions

Memphis Criminal Lawyer

Our firm is dedicated to providing excellent representation for our clients. We believe that this stems from focusing on exemplary client service and education. There are many issues pertaining to criminal charges that may be a mystery to you, and because of this, we offer this information as a means to have some basic questions answered regarding your situation. If you have further questions, then do not hesitate to contact our firm for a free case evaluation to get the answers you need.

 

  • Click Arrow on the Right to See the Answers

    • What Is the Role of a Prosecutor?
      A prosecutor represents the federal or state government in a case. They are the attorney arguing against the defendant. They have the duty to punish people who have committed crimes but also to act fairly when in trial.
    • What Is Restitution?
      A criminal sentence may include restitution for the victims involved in the case. Restitution is a payment made to the victims for the losses they have suffered. It can include damage to property, medical costs, funeral costs, etc. This is a way to compensate the victim for their pain and suffering.
    • What Is the Role of a Grand Jury?
      The grand jury makes the decision if there is enough evidence to indict a suspect and pursue in the criminal proceedings. Indictment is the process of charging a suspect for a crime and the grand jury will decide if there is sufficient evidence to do so. They do not make guilty or innocent decisions, just determinations regarding evidence in a case.
    • What Is the Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony?
      Felonies are more serious convictions than misdemeanors. Generally, the distinction is made based on the potential penalties of the crime. A crime is usually charged as a felony if it is punishable by a year or more in jail while a misdemeanor is commonly punishable by one year or less in jail. Read more here.
    • Can I Be Arrested for Drunk Driving if I Only Had One Drink?
      Drunk driving is not determined by the amount of drinks that you consume. The determination of driving under the influence is made by testing the Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of the driver. If you had a BAC of .08% or above then you may be charged for driving under the influence even if you only had one drink.
    • If I Am Arrested, Do the Police Have to Read Me My Rights?
      Many people believe this to be true, but they do not actually have to read you your rights. If they start to question you; however, and have not read you your rights then they cannot use what you say as evidence at trial. For them to use what you say as evidence against you in trial, they must read you your "Miranda" rights, which include rights to remain silent, right to a lawyer, etc.
    • Do the Police Need a Warrant to Make an Arrest?
      Police do not necessarily need a warrant for an arrest. As long as they have "probable cause" or good reason to believe that you committed a crime, they can make an arrest. There is an exception to this; however, and that is if the person is at their home and it is a nonserious offense. As long as there is no risk that the person can destroy evidence or harm the public, they cannot be arrested in their home without a warrant.
    • Do I Need a Lawyer?
      If you have been charged with a crime or are being questioned by the police, then you need a lawyer. In order to fight for your rights and you have a right to counsel. Do not try to fight against your charges alone, team up with a skilled Memphis criminal attorney from our firm for assistance in your case.
    • Will I Go to Trial?
      Depending on your case and the way that your attorney approaches the case. If you and your attorney are able to reach a resolution through negotiations before trial, that you may not have to go to court. But if a remedy cannot be reached than you will have to go to trial. There are times that a case is dismissed before trial so there is a chance that your will not have to appear in court.
    • The Police Are Asking to Search My Car. Should I Let Them?
      No. As a U.S. citizen, you have rights to protection from unlawful search and seizure, which means that officials must have your consent or a warrant in order to search your person as well as places such as your car, home, or office.
    • The Police Officer Says That It Will Go Better for Me if I Confess. Should I?
      No. It is true that a deal may be worked out in exchange for a guilty plea in some cases; however, it is also important to know that police officers can lie to you in order to elicit information or a confession. With this being said, it is crucial that you do not confess or deny anything until you can speak with a legal representative.
    • I Have Been Arrested. Now What?
      The first thing you must do is remain silent. According to the Fifth Amendment, you have the right to remain silent; any information that you give could possibly be detrimental to your case and held against you in court. You must also seek legal representation as soon as possible to begin building a strong defense of your case.

Criminal Defense Lawyers Serving Memphis, TN

Get Started With a Free Case Evaluation
  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.