A murder charge in Louisiana can change your life forever. It can have a negative effect on your future job prospects, your ability to obtain financial aid for school, and even your housing options.
This is why it’s important to find a criminal defense attorney you can trust. To do so, prioritize these six qualities in your search.
Careless Operation of a Vehicle
A careless operation of a vehicle is one of the most common tickets issued by police officers. The state law outlining this violation is purposefully vague, allowing officers to issue this ticket for all sorts of reasons. If you receive a ticket for this offense, it’s important to know your rights and hire an experienced attorney.
When choosing an attorney, look for someone who has strong communication skills and is able to build your case effectively. Your lawyer will need to be able to explain complex legal concepts in simple terms so that anyone can understand them. They should also be able to listen closely to your story and respond with a thoughtful argument that supports your position.
A careless operation of a vehicle is a serious traffic violation that could lead to a license revocation or even jail time. You should hire an attorney who has experience handling these types of cases and can help you get your record expunged as soon as possible.
Carrying Weapons Illegally
Felony charges can severely impact a person’s life and lead to jail time, loss of future earning capacity, and a permanent record as a convicted felon. For this reason, if you are under investigation or have been charged with a felony crime, it is crucial that you seek the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney.
In the state of Louisiana, it is illegal for a person to carry a weapon or firearm on their person without a valid permit. The penalty for a first offense is up to six months of jail time and a fine. With each subsequent conviction, the penalties become more severe.
When hiring a criminal defense lawyer, there are six qualities you should look for. Keeping these traits in mind can help you find an attorney that will put your interests first and fight to reduce or eliminate your sentence. For more information, head online to view our statewide directory of lawyers.
Possession of a Controlled Substance
Getting charged with drug crimes in Louisiana is a serious matter. Depending on the severity of the charge, the conviction can leave you with a permanent mark on your criminal record that affects your ability to buy a home, get a job or even obtain certain loans.
The state of Louisiana has some of the strictest drug laws in the country. As a result, state and federal prosecutors aggressively pursue charges related to the manufacturing, distribution and possession of drugs. Even “simple” possession charges can lead to significant time behind bars.
The penalties for drug possession in Louisiana range from fines to prison time. For instance, a conviction of a first offense for possession of a Schedule I or II illegal drug, such as cocaine or heroin, can carry a sentence of up to two years at hard labor. If you have a prescription for a Schedule V drug, such as oxycodone or Xanax, and are found in possession of that medication without a valid doctor’s prescription, it is a crime.
Expungement
An expungement is a legal process that erases your record of an arrest or conviction. Expungement laws vary widely from state to state. Only misdemeanors or certain non-violent felonies can be expunged. It may take up to five years for a non-violent felony to be expunged. You must be free of any pending criminal charges to qualify for expungement.
It is important to consult with a criminal lawyer louisiana to make sure you are eligible for expungement. Then, you need to fill out all required paperwork and pay any fees. It’s also possible that you will have to attend a hearing.
A successful expungement can help you regain your dignity, find employment, and build a strong future for yourself and your family. It can also reduce recidivism and lower the cost of public safety for everyone. A well-trained criminal defense attorney can guide you through the expungement process and get your record sealed quickly. He will also fight to protect your rights and assist you in moving on with your life.
