Las Vegas Misdemeanor Crime Defense Lawyer
Most people charged with a DUI, a misdemeanor drug charge or a felony crime in Nevada have never been in legal trouble before. Many are surprised to learn that the procedures we watch the police and prosecutors go through on television isn't at all what occurs in real life. The truth is, being arrested is a confusing, frightening experience. It is easy to say or do something that will only hurt your case. That is why it is critical to get an experienced attorney to advise you of your rights and options as soon as possible.
The Oronoz Law Offices is one of the Las Vegas region's pre-eminent criminal defense law firms. We talk to people every day who have found themselves facing criminal charges. Many are from out of state and don't understand our criminal court procedures or where to turn for help.
Here are some basic steps to follow in the event you are arrested and charged with a criminal offense in Nevada:
- Pay attention to your Miranda rights: When the police say that anything you say or do can be used against you as evidence in court, they are serious. There is only one good way to avoid saying anything harmful: say nothing at all, until you have legal representation advising you of your rights and protecting you from police and prosecutors twisting your words and using them against you.
- Tell your lawyer the truth: Don't lie while explaining your side of the story. The truth will come out. Be honest with your defense attorney about the events that led to your arrest. You have nothing to fear by telling your lawyer the whole truth. Nothing you say to your attorney is admissible as evidence against you. Your attorney will advise you about offering details that may be used against you.
- Don't let your fears get the best of you: It is easy to get worried about spending years in jail. That is exactly what the prosecutor wants you to think. Even if you know you screwed up and made a bad mistake, it doesn't make you a hardened criminal. Yes, penalties can be serious, but Nevada offers many diversion options to help first-time offenders avoid a conviction and jail time. It's more than a slap on the wrist, but your future won't be destroyed. We work hard with prosecutors to find alternative penalties that make sense for you and your family.
- Make sure you understand the charges: Prosecutors and court clerks speak a language of their own. You have the right to understand exactly what you are being charged with. Before you leave the police station or courthouse, you need to know what will happen next. If your court papers include abbreviations or legal language that doesn't make sense to you, we will help you understand everything.
- Don't worry your family needlessly: You will have the opportunity to discuss your circumstances with your spouse and other family members. Don't jump into the deep end with talk about the worst possible scenario. Telling your spouse that you are facing 10 years in prison isn't going to help anyone. The truth is, you don't know what the outcome will be until all procedures and strategies have played out. Tell your family you have a good, experienced lawyer on your side, and you will keep everyone up to date throughout the process. As your attorney, we will be happy to explain the situation to your spouse or other family members, to make sure they completely understand the situation.
- Listen to your lawyer's advice: We will aggressively assist you through the process. We will be fighting aggressively to challenge the prosecutor's case and seek a dismissal of charges, if possible. At various points during the legal defense process, you will have decisions to make. We offer intelligent, knowledgeable legal advice, based upon years of experience handling thousands of cases, many just like yours. You will always have the final decision in every legal matter, but it is always a good idea to trust your lawyers' experience and recommendations.
An Experienced, Effective Las Vegas Defense Lawyer You Can Rely On
Want to know more about what to do after you are arrested in Nevada? Ask us. Whether you have already been arrested and charged, or are under investigation for a criminal offense, get the experienced legal help you need. From our offices in Las Vegas, we represent clients residing in Nevada, or visiting the state from across the nation and around the world. Contact us anytime to for a free initial consultation.
