Preparing The Strongest Possible Criminal Defense

It is my firm belief that you should never talk to law enforcement without an attorney present. The police do an important, but thankless, dangerous job. I have many friends who are excellent, professional law enforcement agents. However, there are a few police officers who care more about closing the case than they do about your rights and justice.

Often, the police officer only knows one side of the story and can focus on other things when the truth is not so obvious. If you talk to the police without a lawyer, it can be an intimidating experience. Your statements can be misunderstood or, worse, misrepresented. If you have your lawyer with you, you ensure that the discussion with the police will remain professional and within the boundaries of the law, and you have a witness to what you did or did not say.

It does not matter if you are innocent or have committed a heinous crime; do not talk to the police without talking to an experienced criminal defense lawyer first.

A criminal conviction, much less an arrest, can alter your life and future. Whether for underage possession of alcohol outside of a football stadium, a self-defense shooting or a false accusation of rape, you will face a criminal justice system that rarely has sympathy for the accused. Of course, jail and prison time can be serious, but so can fines, court costs and probation terms. And that is only the beginning. A conviction can haunt you for the rest of your life and can alter your career opportunities and lifestyle choices. To learn more about how I can help you, call 800-640-1954.

Criminal Defense Cases I Handle

I have extensive criminal defense experience in the following areas:

• Drunk driving charges
• Drug charges, including possession and sale of controlled substances
• Gun charges
• Violent crimes
• White collar crimes like embezzlement
• Sex crimes

No matter the charges you face, I will work to create a legal strategy that defends your rights and freedom at every stage of the legal process.

Every Criminal Law Case Is Serious

Every case is serious, and every case is different, so it is vital that your attorney understands as much as possible about your case. I interview witnesses, document crime scenes, research complex legal issues and take all necessary steps to ensure the most successful resolution of your case.

Each case is unique, so success can be a dismissal of all charges, a plea agreement that minimizes penalties or a not guilty verdict at trial. While I do have substantial trial experience, I know that very few cases should go to trial. I will be candid about your options and will tailor my approach to your individual needs. When you hire me, I will always have your best interest as my primary concern.

Common Questions About Criminal Charges In Louisiana

When the authorities accuse you of committing a crime, it is natural to have numerous questions about the legal process, your rights, and the potential consequences you may be facing. Below are common questions about criminal cases in Louisiana and answers about what to expect as you navigate the criminal justice system.

What should I do if I am arrested for a crime in Louisiana?

After an arrest, it is vital for the accused to know and protect their rights. Remaining silent can ensure that the things they say are not used against them in a future trial. Contacting a Louisiana criminal defense attorney can help them understand their options, build a strong defense and take additional steps to safeguard their rights.

What makes a misdemeanor charge different from a felony?

While any criminal charge can lead to serious penalties, misdemeanors are generally less serious crimes than felonies. They may lead to fines, community service, probation or a shorter period in jail.

Felonies, on the other hand, involve more serious consequences like more significant fines and a longer period of imprisonment in a state correctional facility. In addition to these steep penalties, people convicted of felonies my also face other challenges. These include the loss of their voting rights while imprisoned or on probation, the loss of the ability to own a gun and limitations on their ability to receive government support.

Will my case go to trial?

Not all cases go to trial; charges can be dropped before trial if the prosecutor believes there is not enough evidence to secure a conviction or if there are legal issues with the case. Your attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor, often during pre-trial conferences, to discuss the possibility of dismissing or reducing charges based on the evidence or procedural matters.

What is a plea bargain?

A plea bargain is an agreement where the defendant agrees to plead guilty to specific charges in exchange for a more lenient sentence, reduced charges or other benefits. Whether to accept a plea bargain is a decision that should be made with thorough advice from a criminal defense attorney.

What are the consequences of a criminal conviction in Louisiana?

The consequences of a criminal conviction in Louisiana can include imprisonment, fines, probation, community service, and the loss of some rights like the right to possess firearms. A conviction can also have long-term effects on employment, housing, and educational opportunities.

The exact penalties in your case will depend on the charges involved and the details of those allegations. Discussing your situation with an experienced Louisiana criminal defense attorney can offer insight into the exact penalties you might face.

Contact A.J. Hodges Today For An Aggressive Criminal Defense

Call me at 800-640-1954 or contact me online to get started. From my office in Shreveport, I represent clients across Louisiana.