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Do I Need to Hire Criminal Defense Attorneys?
The answer is Yes! Criminal defense attorneys can help you understand what to do if you are arrested, how to deal with the criminal process and understand the rights you have as a criminal defendant. Criminal offenses are often very serious. You could be facing jail, prison, probation, fines, restitution or other sanctions. Please keep in mind that if you cannot afford to hire a private attorney, the court will appoint a public defender to represent you.
At Godshalk Law Office, we can help. We have been representing people in State and Federal courts for over 16 years. We also have close relationships with many excellent attorneys in Illinois and other states.
What is the Miranda rule?
The doctrine that a criminal suspect in police custody must be informed of certain constitutional rights before being interrogated.
What is a felony?
A crime that can result in lengthy jail sentences.There are 4 classes of felonies in State court in Indiana. Class D felonies are punishable by between 6 months and 3 years in jail; Class C felonies are punishable by between 2 and 8 years in jail; Class B felonies are punishable by between 6 and 20 years in jail and Class A felonies are punishable by between 20 and 50 years in jail. Multiple charges could result in the sentences being added together for more jail time.
Murder cases are more serious than Class A felonies and are punishable by up to 65 years in jail; life without parole or even death.
All felonies are subject to up to $10,000 in fines.
Some common felonies include, possession or dealing cocaine or other drugs, robbery, rape, fraud, theft, battery with a weapon, and molestation.
What is a misdemeanor?
A crime that is less serious than a felony and is usually punishable by no more than one year in jail and a fine not to exceed $5,000.
Some misdemeanors include, OWI, Driving While Suspended, Resisting Law Enforcement, Trespassing, Public Intoxication and Disorderly Conduct.
Are there alternatives to jail?
In both felonies and misdemeanors, Attorney Godshalk may be able to negotiate a reduced sentence, which could include work release, home detention or probation which can allow you to keep a job and continue to support yourself or family. It may also be necessary to go to trial on your matter to obtain resolve the matter. In that event, Attorney Godshalk's trial experience could assist you.
The specific result in your case will depend on many factors, including, the charges filed and your criminal history.
What is a "tort"?
A tort is a private or civil wrong or injury (other than breach of contract) for which a court of law may provide a remedy through a lawsuit for damages (compensation). When a person violates his/her duty to others created under general (or statutory) law, a tort has been committed.
The four elements present in a typical tort lawsuit are:
(1) The existence of a legal duty owed by a person to others
(2) The breach of the duty by one person (negligence)
(3) The breach of the duty being the "proximate cause" of damages suffered by a person
(4) Damages incurred by a person.
Each of the four elements of a tort typically must be present to be compensated.
Common torts are car, truck and boat collisions as well as injuries from falling objects or injuries received from medical treatment.
How should I dress for court?
It is important to take all court proceedings seriously. Do not dress like you are going to the beach or out dancing. For men, if you dress in dress pants and a shirt with a collar at a minimum, the court with give you more respect than the person that shows up in a T-shirt and jeans. For women, if you dress in a business suit or a skirt below the knee and a nice blouse you will also receive much more favorable attention from the court.
Remember the court is making a decision that could affect the rest of your life.
Where is the courtroom for my case?
Check our links section to access the court for your case. |
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