DeRidder Criminal Defense Lawyer

DeRidder Criminal Defense Attorney

Facing criminal charges is stressful, and a conviction can result in a devastating effect on the rest of your future. Even for crimes that don’t result in significant incarceration, a criminal record can harm your ability to get governmental benefits, retain a job, obtain housing, and even get parental rights.

If you have been arrested and charged with a crime, it’s important to get in contact with a DeRidder criminal defense lawyer. This provides you with the greatest chance of limiting or eliminating the penalties of a criminal conviction.

At the Law Offices of R. Scott Iles, we have more than 30 years of legal experience. Our firm is dedicated to helping those in DeRidder and the surrounding communities. We know that the situation you are in can be overwhelming, and our team can help guide you through the process of your criminal case. The sooner you get in contact with our team, the sooner we can begin investigating and building a defense for your case.

Understanding Criminal Law in DeRidder, LA

Criminal offenses are divided into felonies and misdemeanors. Misdemeanors are typically less severe crimes that result in up to 1 year in jail and fines. Felonies are more serious, and a conviction typically results in over a year in prison.

Although misdemeanors carry lesser penalties, both crimes can have a devastating impact on your future. In addition to criminal penalties, a conviction for these crimes results in a criminal record. This will show up in background checks, which can harm your life in many ways, including:

• Limiting your career opportunities or resulting in the loss of your job
• Impacting your parental rights in a custody case
• Preventing you from educational acceptance and scholarships
• Denial of housing applications

Some convictions can also affect your right to vote, your right to own firearms or your immigration status. The most effective way to avoid these long-term consequences on your future is to work with an experienced attorney in DeRidder, LA.

Common Criminal Defense Cases We Handle in DeRidder

Different criminal defense charges require different legal approaches. Some of the most common types of criminal cases include:

• Driving while intoxicated (DWI).
• Drug charges
• Larceny
• Internet crimes
• Arson
• Assault and battery
• Homicide

It’s useful to find an attorney who has experience with the type of charges you face.

How Long Will a Criminal Defense Case Last?

Every criminal charge is different, and the amount of time your case will take depends on several factors. Felony charges typically take longer to resolve than misdemeanors. The case’s timeline will also change depending on how complex your criminal case is, your criminal history, and any aggravating factors present in the case. It may take weeks, months, or more than a year to resolve.

Do I Need a DeRidder Criminal Defense Attorney?

You have the right to legal defense when you are charged with a crime, and it is incredibly beneficial to rely on that right. Without a criminal defense attorney, you will be facing a state prosecutor alone. State prosecutors have all the resources provided by the state, and they know how to prosecute your case to its fullest extent.

By working with a criminal defense attorney, you give yourself a similar level of legal resources and knowledge to aid your defense. There are several benefits to working with a criminal defense attorney, including:

• Extensive legal knowledge: An attorney who has worked in criminal law and the local legal system understands local and state laws and how they impact your case. They have worked on criminal cases like yours before and know the potential defenses and effective strategies to handle your case.
• Understanding of the criminal justice system: Although the criminal court system may be new and overwhelming to you, an attorney has navigated it before. A criminal defense attorney likely knows and has professional relationships with the judges and prosecutors on your case.
• Effective legal resources: When you work with a criminal defense firm, they have the resources to fully investigate the scene of the accident, crime, or arrest. They may be able to find important evidence for your case.

A criminal case is more likely to end in your favor with a criminal defense attorney. Your attorney may be able to get the charges against you dismissed, or they can negotiate for a lesser sentence.

What Is the Hourly Fee for a Criminal Defense Attorney in Louisiana?

The average cost of a criminal defense attorney in Louisiana is $267 an hour. However, these fees depend on a vast number of factors, including:

• Attorney experience: The more experience an attorney has in law and in criminal defense, the higher their rates will likely be. Experience is beneficial for your case, but not every attorney with a high rate has the necessary experience. It’s important to review an attorney’s experience and success rates.
• Firm location: Firms located in cities typically have higher rates than rural firms.
• Type and complexity of your case: The rates for a criminal defense case will depend on the type of charge you are facing, outside factors, the circumstances of your arrest, and other complicating issues.
• Type of fee structure: Most criminal cases are charged on an hourly basis. Some attorneys may charge an additional retainer fee for you to reserve their services throughout your case.

It’s always important to talk about fee structures and pricing with an attorney prior to beginning an attorney-client relationship. An attorney should be upfront and clear with you about how they will charge your case.

Protecting Your Rights in DeRidder

When you are charged with a crime, you need a strong defense. At the Law Offices of R. Scott Iles, we believe in providing compassionate and respectful legal care as well as a thorough and effective defense.

Contact our team to learn how we can help with your criminal defense in DeRidder.