Greenville Criminal Defense FAQ

What should I do if I'm arrested?
If you are arrested by state or federal law enforcement, there are two important steps to take. First, exercise your right to remain silent. You do not have to submit to questioning, and law enforcement is allowed to say anything they want in an attempt to try to get you to give up information or make a confession. Second, seek the services of a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. You need the protection that only a skilled lawyer can provide if you are facing potential criminal charges of any kind.

What if I am under investigation by law enforcement - do I need a lawyer?
You may have been contacted by the Greenville police department during an investigation. Though formal charges have not been filed against you, the police are currently in the stage of the case where they are looking for enough evidence for the District Attorney to press charges. Even at this point in the process a lawyer can work to protect your rights and interests - possibly even helping you avoid criminal charges altogether.

Will I go to jail?
Whether you go to jail for a criminal conviction will depend on the particular offense and the potential penalties that may be imposed. Some crimes may be eligible for alternative sentencing, meaning a defendant can complete community service, rehabilitation, counseling or another form of alternative punishment to avoid imprisonment.

What is probation?
Probation is essentially the conditional release of a convicted offender. In lieu of part or all of his or her sentence, the offender is allowed to live in society but will have to comply with specific rules or face the revocation of probation and imprisonment.

What is a federal crime?
A federal crime is an offense that is illegal under federal law. These are typically crimes that are committed on government property, against the government or that involve crossed state lines or national borders.

What is a juvenile crime?
A juvenile crime may be considered an offense that is committed by a minor and is prosecuted in juvenile court as opposed to in adult court. In some cases, however, a minor may be tried as an adult depending on his or her age and the severity of the offense.

Criminal Defense Attorney in Greenville