Abilene Criminal Defense Lawyers

As your experienced criminal defense lawyers in Abilene, we play a large role in safeguarding your rights and guiding you through the legal process of your criminal case.

Here’s how our law attorneys can help:

• Protecting Your Rights: We ensure your rights are upheld. We make sure you’re treated fairly and that any evidence or statements made during your arrest are handled correctly.
• Negotiating with Prosecutors: We negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf to potentially reduce charges or secure a more favorable plea deal. Our knowledge and experience allow us to work towards the best possible outcome for you.
• Preparing for Trial: We prepare your case by gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and filing the necessary motions. We challenge the prosecution’s evidence and develop strategies to strengthen your defense.
• Strategic Defense: We use various strategies, such as questioning the credibility of witnesses, highlighting inconsistencies in evidence, and presenting counter-evidence to weaken the prosecution’s case.

What to Do If You Get Arrested

Getting arrested can be a stressful and confusing experience. Here’s a practical guide on what to do immediately after an arrest:

1. Remain Silent: Exercise your right to remain silent. You don’t have to answer questions or make statements to the police. Anything you say can be used against you in court, so it’s best to wait until your lawyer is present.
2. Request an Attorney Serving Abilene: As soon as you can, ask to speak with an attorney from our Texas criminal defense law office. Having us in your corner is a great option when you have been charged with a criminal offense.
3. Avoid Contact with Law Enforcement Without Us: Do not discuss your case with law enforcement officers without a lawyer from our firm present. This includes avoiding any written or recorded statements. Anything you say can be used in your trial, so let your attorney handle communications with the police.
4. Stay Calm and Polite: Even though the situation is difficult, try to stay calm and respectful. This will help you maintain control of the situation and avoid escalating tensions.
5. Gather Information: If possible, take note of the names and badge numbers of the arresting officers. Also, try to remember the details of the arrest, including what was said and any evidence collected. This information can be useful for your defense.
6. Contact Family or Friends: Let someone you trust know about your situation. They can help you get in touch with a lawyer and provide emotional support during this challenging time.

Taking these steps can help protect your rights and set the stage for a stronger defense. Always prioritize getting professional legal help, and let our criminal defense attorneys in Abilene defend you every step of the way.

Your Rights as a Defendant

If you’re facing criminal law charges in Texas, here’s a straightforward look at your essential rights:

• Right to Remain Silent: You don’t have to talk to the police or answer questions about the charges. You can choose to stay silent to avoid saying anything that might hurt your case.
• Right to an Attorney: If you can’t afford one, the court will appoint a public defender to help you. Your lawyer will walk you through legal procedures and defend your rights.
• Right to a Fair Trial: This means you can present evidence, question witnesses, and ensure that the trial is conducted justly.
• Right to Know the Charges: This helps you understand what you’re up against and prepare your defense.
• Right to Confront Witnesses: This ensures that you can challenge the evidence and get a clear picture of the case against you.
• Right to a Speedy Trial: This right helps prevent unnecessary delays and keeps the process moving forward.

Knowing and understanding these rights can make a big difference in your defense. A West Texas criminal defense lawyer here at Keith & Lorfing will ensure these rights are upheld and get the best outcome for your case.

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Potential Penalties

Here’s a clearer overview of what you might expect when facing criminal charges in Texas:

1. Fines can vary significantly depending on the type of crime. For misdemeanors, fines can range from $500 for Class C offenses, which generally don’t involve jail time, up to $4,000 for Class A offenses. Felonies, on the other hand, can also involve fines up to $10,000, though these amounts are less common compared to the other penalties involved.
2. Jail time is another serious consequence. Misdemeanors can result in incarceration ranging from no jail time for Class C offenses, up to one year for Class A offenses. Felonies carry much more severe jail time, with State Jail Felonies leading to up to two years, Third-Degree Felonies ranging from two to ten years, and First-Degree Felonies potentially resulting in life imprisonment.
3. Probation is often an alternative or addition to jail time, especially for misdemeanors and some felonies. It involves regular check-ins with a probation officer, community service, and adhering to specific conditions set by the court. For felonies, probation can be more intensive and might include strict supervision and additional requirements.

Having a criminal record can have lasting effects. Misdemeanors might impact job opportunities and professional licenses, but felonies can have even more severe consequences.

A felony conviction may lead to the loss of certain rights, such as voting or owning firearms, and can create significant hurdles in finding employment or housing.

Each case is unique, so the exact penalties you might face can differ, making it essential that you contact the best criminal trial lawyer to defend you.

Criminal Justice Process in Abilene

Here’s a straightforward look at how the criminal justice process works in Abilene, including what you can expect at each stage:

1. Arrest: The process starts with an arrest by local law enforcement. Once arrested, you’ll be taken to a detention center—likely, the Taylor County Detention Center. This is where your case begins.
2. Arraignment: At your arraignment, you’ll appear before a judge who will explain the charges against you. You’ll have the chance to enter a plea—guilty, not guilty, or no contest. This usually happens within 48 hours of your arrest.
3. Bail Hearing: After your arraignment, you’ll have a bail hearing where the judge decides if you can be released on bail and how much it will be. The judge considers things like the seriousness of your charges, your risk of fleeing, and your criminal record. This hearing typically happens soon after your arraignment.
4. Pre-Trial Motions: Before the trial starts, both sides can file motions. These might involve requests to exclude certain evidence or even dismiss the case. In Taylor County, these motions are usually handled by the 42nd District Court, which has its own procedures.
5. Trial: If your case goes to trial, it will take place at the Taylor County courthouse. During the trial, both sides will present evidence, question witnesses, and make their arguments. Abilene courts are known for being detailed and methodical in this process.
6. Sentencing: A sentencing hearing will be scheduled if you’re found guilty or decide to plead guilty. At this hearing, the judge will determine your penalties, including fines, probation, or jail time. The judge will consider the nature of the crime and your personal history when deciding your sentence.

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?

We understand that figuring out how much the best Abilene criminal defense lawyer will cost can be stressful. Below is a straightforward guide to help you understand our fees and what you can expect:

Fee Structure:

• Hourly Rates: Charges are based on the exact time spent working on the case.
• Flat Fees: A single, upfront payment covers all services for the entire case.
• Retainers: An initial payment that secures legal services, with fees deducted as work is completed. Additional funds may be required once the retainer is exhausted.

Our goal is to be as transparent as possible about our fees for your criminal defense case and to work with you to find a payment plan that suits your needs. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns about the costs.

We’re here to help and want to ensure you feel comfortable and informed every step of the way, which is why we offer a free consultation to all clients.

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