Top Westlake, LA Criminal Defense Lawyers Near You
The Sanchez Law Firm, L.L.C.
Criminal Defense Lawyers | Serving Westlake, LA
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The Sanchez Law Firm, LLC
Criminal Defense Lawyers | Lake Charles Office | Serving Westlake, LA
View ProfileA reputable law firm in Westlake, Louisiana, The Sanchez Law Firm, LLC specializes in helping clients with Criminal Defense issues.
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Hinch and Associates PLC
Criminal Defense Lawyers | Lake Charles Office | Serving Westlake, LA
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Chaffe McCall, L.L.P.
Criminal Defense Lawyers | Lake Charles Office | Serving Westlake, LA
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Sudduth & Associates, LLC
Criminal Defense Lawyers | Lake Charles Office | Serving Westlake, LA
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Vamvoras Antoon
Criminal Defense Lawyers | Lake Charles Office | Serving Westlake, LA
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Hale Law Firm
Criminal Defense Lawyers | Lake Charles Office | Serving Westlake, LA
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Lorenzi & Barnatt, L.L.C.
Criminal Defense Lawyers | Lake Charles Office | Serving Westlake, LA
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Roach Law Firm
Criminal Defense Lawyers | Lake Charles Office | Serving Westlake, LA
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Taylor, Porter, Brooks & Phillips, LLP
Criminal Defense Lawyers | Lake Charles Office | Serving Westlake, LA
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Todd Clemons and Associates
Criminal Defense Lawyers | Lake Charles Office | Serving Westlake, LA
Westlake Criminal Defense Information
Lead Counsel Verified Attorneys In Westlake
Lead Counsel independently verifies Criminal Defense attorneys in Westlake by conferring with Louisiana bar associations and conducting annual reviews to confirm that an attorney practices in their advertised practice areas and possesses a valid bar license for the appropriate jurisdictions.
Are You Facing Criminal Charges?
If you are being investigated for or have been accused of a crime, now is the time to seek out the legal help you need. No matter the crime, a Westlake criminal law attorney will be able to protect your legal rights.
Different Types of Criminal Charges
Criminal charges can range from minor infractions to misdemeanors and they can be as serious as felony or aggravated felony charges. No matter the charge, a person should be considered innocent until proven otherwise. Reading about criminal law and your rights can help you see the importance of a solid defense.
Each criminal charge carries with a potential punishment, which can include fines, probation and even jail time. The goal of a criminal defense lawyer will be to end up with the most favorable outcome possible for your particular situation.
What do criminal defense lawyers do?
A criminal defense lawyer will ensure that law enforcement respects your legal rights if they are investigating you or have arrested you. Your attorney will also conduct their own investigation to look for the best strategy to defend against your charges, including representing you at trial if necessary.What makes a good criminal defense attorney?
A good criminal defense attorney knows the law and does not back down when police and prosecutors do not respect your rights or try to pressure you into taking a plea deal that is not in your best interest. You should also look for an attorney who has a long track record of success in cases like yours, including trial victories.Should you accept a plea deal?
Police and prosecutors count on making defendants feel like they have no other option but to accept a plea deal, such as threatening to seek harsher punishment if you take your case to trial. You should only accept a plea deal after your attorney has taken a careful look at your case and the evidence for and against you. In some cases, a plea deal may be beneficial than taking your case to trial, but this is not a decision you should make on your own. It should be with someone who knows the law.When should you ask for an attorney?
You should ask for an attorney as soon as you learn that you are under suspicion of committing a crime. If police are investigating you and “just want to ask you a couple of questions,” you should politely refuse and ask for a lawyer’s help. Also, if you are arrested, you should ask to contact a lawyer as soon as possible before answering any other questions. An attorney can speak to police and prosecutors on your behalf and make sure they respect your rights.Best Time to Seek Legal Help
No matter what your legal issue may be, it is always best to seek legal help early in the process. An attorney can help secure what is likely to be the best possible outcome for your situation and avoid both unnecessary complications or errors.
How to Prepare for Your Initial Consultation
Prepare for your consultation by writing down notes of your understanding of the case, jot down questions and concerns for the attorney, and gather your documents. Remember that you are trying to get a sense of whether the attorney has your trust and can help you address your legal issues. Questions should include how the attorney intends to resolve your issue, how many years he/she has been practicing law and specifically practicing in your area, as well as how many cases similar to yours the attorney has handled. It can also be helpful to broach the subject of fees so that you understand the likely cost and structure of your representation by a specific attorney and/or legal team.
How will an attorney charge me?
A reputable attorney will be very upfront about how he/she will charge you. The three most common fee structures that attorneys use to charge for their services are:
- Bill by the hour
- Contingent fee agreement
- Flat fee agreement
Depending on your specific legal situation, it’s possible that only one type of fee structure is available. For instance, criminal defense attorneys almost always bill by the hour. In a flat fee arrangement, an attorney accepts a one-time payment to help you resolve your issue. With a contingent fee agreement, the client pays little to nothing upfront and the attorney receives a percentage of the money recovered if you win your case.
Common legal terms explained
Affidavit – A sworn written statement made under oath. An affidavit is meant to be a supporting document to the court assisting in the verification of certain facts. An affidavit may or may not require notarization.