Criminal law covers a wide spectrum of offenses. It basically refers to acts of behavior that harm, endanger, threaten, or damage lives and property. If a crime impacts health and safety on a large scale, it is a felony. A lesser offense is considered a misdemeanor. Possession of large quantities of drugs is a felony because the potential to sell or distribute them threatens the lives of many people. Possession of a small amount of marijuana is a misdemeanor because there is less of a threat. The difference between a felony and a misdemeanor can also be the location. For example, a weapons charge that is usually a misdemeanor is considered a felony, if the accused was within a school zone.
Montgomery County Criminal Lawyers can file motions to get charges dropped from a felony to a lesser felony, or to a misdemeanor in many circumstances. That could mean the difference between several years in prison and a shorter term, or between jail time and a fine. It is also possible to get misdemeanor charges dropped altogether, if the case is handled by an experienced lawyer. Finding a group of Montgomery County Criminal Lawyers that has experience in all types of criminal defenses would provide the most benefit to the accused. The firm can select a lawyer that has successfully represented people in manslaughter cases, for example, if the accused is arrested for manslaughter. There are many aspects to a crime that determine the outcome so it is very important to get legal representation as quickly as possible.
Interviewing witnesses while the incident is fresh in their minds is essential to building a case. If searches of a vehicle or home was done without consent or a warrant, motions can be filed to suppress any findings. If rights were violated at any point of the arrest or questioning, Montgomery County Criminal Lawyers can use that information to have statements stricken, charges dropped, and the accused released. They can also intervene to make sure rights are not violated any further. Investigating the circumstances can help eliminate intent, which is a factor the can differentiate the degree of the charges. Montgomery County Criminal Lawyers can provide clients with options, build a strong case, and represent the accused in court.
