Roanoke Criminal Defense Attorney
If you or a loved one was arrested for a crime in Virginia, you need a skilled Roanoke criminal defense attorney on your side. We understand how important it is to have the best legal defense possible when facing criminal charges. Even misdemeanor charges should be taken seriously as they can affect you for years to come.
At MichieHamlett Law Firm, we know that each criminal matter has its own set of circumstances and facts. You need a lawyer who will give your case the individualized attention that it deserves.
Common Types of Criminal Matters
Our legal team has extensive experience representing Virginia clients for a wide variety of criminal law matters. Some of the most common criminal cases we handle include:
- Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs
- Traffic offenses such as reckless driving
- Drug crimes, including possession, distribution, and manufacturing
- Weapons charges
- Assault and battery
- Burglary and robbery
- Rape
- Domestic violence
- Child pornography
- White collar crimes
- Manslaughter or Murder
- Fraud
- Solicitation or prostitution
- Driving on a suspended license
We can also represent you for crimes not listed here, such as disorderly conduct, public drunkenness, violating a restraining order, etc.
Juvenile Offenses
If you are a parent whose child has been arrested, you need to take action immediately to ensure they receive the best defense possible. Don’t assume that because your child is underage, the court will go easy on them. We will be up against an experienced criminal prosecutor. You need a Roanoke criminal defense attorney who can prepare the best defense possible for your child.
Phases of a Virginia Criminal Matter
It’s crucial to understand the criminal justice process in Virginia so you know what to expect. In most cases, the process goes as follows:
- Arrest including possible questioning and booking at the station
- Arraignment or Pre-Trial Hearing where bail may be discussed
- Possible plea bargain offered by the prosecution
- A preliminary hearing to determine whether there’s enough evidence to proceed at trial
- Trial hearing
- Verdict where jury or judge read the verdict
- Sentencing where your punishment will be read
Don’t assume that if you are charged with a misdemeanor that you will get off light. Virginia judges have been known to hand down harsh bail amounts and issue pretrial release orders that require a pretrial release agent to supervise a defendant. Depending on where your case is being heard, you could be facing additional hurdles, such as some prosecutors are less likely to waive a jury, while the juries are typically harsher on an alleged criminal.
Negotiating a Plea Deal
Depending on the circumstances, your attorney may be able to negotiate a plea bargain that reduces the charges and a lighter sentence if you plead no contest or guilty. You don’t want to attempt to negotiate a plea deal on your own behalf. You need a skilled lawyer who can advise you whether the deal is a good one or whether you are better off taking your chances with a trial.
Contact a Roanoke Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you have been arrested for a crime in Virginia, contact MichieHamlett Law Firm right away. The sooner you retain a dedicated Roanoke criminal defense lawyer, the sooner we can start preparing the best defense possible.
