Total Criminal Defense: Talk to a Criminal Defense Attorney Today

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Protect your Rights: Speak with a Criminal Defense Attorney

Our country believes in a fair legal system, where you are viewed as innocent until proven guilty; however, during the criminal process, the prosecution is looking to hold someone responsible for the alleged crime. If you have been charged with a crime, consult a criminal defense attorney to learn more about the court proceedings, your rights and the law.

Although the law guarantees you receive a just trial, consider finding a criminal defense attorney to help you make sure your rights are protected. Total Criminal Defense can connect you with a criminal defense attorney in your area.

Fill out the form to the left to set up a free, no obligation consultation with a criminal defense attorney who is familiar with the local law.

Crime & Punishment: Classification of Crimes

Below is a general summary of crimes and their classifications. For more information on these, or for legal advice, consider speaking with a local criminal defense attorney.

A felony is considered the most serious crime by U.S. law. Crimes such as murder, rape, arson, treason, terrorism, kidnapping and burglary are considered felonies.

Consequences:

• At least one year in prison
• Heavy fines
• Difficulty finding a job
• Restrictions on voting
• Serving on a jury
• Owning firearms

A misdemeanor is less serious than a felony but more serious than an infraction. Misdemeanors include crimes like petty theft, public intoxication, simple assault, prostitution, disorderly conduct, trespass and vandalism.

Consequences:

• Five days to one year in jail
• Community service
• Probation
• Fines

An infraction is known as a "petty offense" and least serious. Usually infractions are a violation of local ordinance, municipal code, administrative regulation or traffic rule. Infractions are jaywalking, littering, disturbing the peace and some traffic offences.

Consequences:

• Five days or less in jail
• Fines
• Order to fix the offending situation

You are Under Arrest: the Process

The criminal case begins once you are placed under arrest. You are in police custody and no longer free to do as you please.

Once you have been arrested, anything you say or do in the presence of law enforcement can be used against you in the case. Some mistakes you make can be devastating to your defense as well as lead to additional criminal charges.

"You Have the Right"

If you are arrested, it is important that a police officer reads you your Miranda warnings and you remember them throughout the questioning process. Any statements made during the discussion may not be allowed to be used in the trial if your rights are not read to you. But this does not necessarily mean that the charges brought against you will be dropped.

Once criminal charges have been brought against you, the Sixth Amendment guarantees you the right to a "speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury." Each court jurisdiction has their own guidelines as to what is considered speedy and public with a jury.

A local criminal defense lawyer can go over your case to determine whether your rights were protected during the arrest and interrogation process. With the help of an attorney, you may be able to make sure you are granted a public trial in a reasonable amount of time.

Why Total Criminal Defense?

Not every charge leads to conviction, which is why a criminal defense lawyer may be able to help you. Although the state has chosen to charge you, it does not mean you are guilty of a crime.

Total Criminal Defense is sponsored by criminal defense attorneys nationwide that can talk to you about potential options available to help you.

You may be able to clear your charges and move on with your life. Fill out a form and Total Criminal Defense can connect you with a local attorney practicing in the area where the crime occurred. Set up a free, no obligation consultation to learn more about the charges brought against you, your rights and possible defenses.