Criminal Defense Attorney In Lafayette

What is Criminal Defense?

Everyone accused of a crime deserves a fair chance in court. That's where criminal defense attorneys come in. The legal system can be complicated, and facing the government and prosecutors alone can be overwhelming. Criminal defense lawyers are there to fight for you, whether you hire them privately or receive a public defender if you can't afford one.

These lawyers handle all kinds of cases, from traffic violations to serious offenses. Their goal is to get you the best possible outcome, whether that's proving your innocence or ensuring a fair punishment if you're found guilty.

Understanding Criminal Procedures and the System

The criminal justice system starts working when a crime occurs and continues until someone is found guilty, ensuring the defendant's rights are protected. It begins with thorough investigations, followed by an arrest and the collection of evidence by law enforcement to prove guilt. But that's just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to understanding how the system works. Key procedures in the criminal justice system include:

• Investigation: Law enforcement conducts detailed investigations to gather evidence of a crime.
• Arrest: Following the investigation, if sufficient evidence is found, the suspect is arrested.
• Collection of Evidence: Prosecutors and police work together to compile evidence against the defendant.
• Protection of Rights: When you're accused of a crime, you have rights. These include having a lawyer, a quick trial in front of a jury, and not being held in jail forever without a trial.
• Trial and Potential Outcomes: With their defense team, the defendant navigates the trial, facing various possible outcomes.

If you're arrested, it's important that the process is done correctly, that your trial is fair, and that you have a lawyer to help you every step of the way.

The Different Outcomes of Criminal Defense Cases

Criminal defense cases are very complicated and can take many different turns, each leading to a distinct outcome. A good defense lawyer helps you navigate the legal system and fight for the best possible outcome in your case. Here are the potential outcomes:

• Plea Bargain: The defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a reduced sentence.
• Case Dismissal: The judge can throw out a case if the evidence against someone is untrustworthy or if the police got it in a way that wasn't allowed.
• Acquittal: If the case goes to trial, the jury could find the defendant not guilty.
• Conviction: The trial could result in a guilty verdict, followed by sentencing according to the law.

There are lots of ways a criminal case can end. A good criminal defense lawyer can help you get the best possible result. They know how to handle the complex legal system and aim for the best possible outcome.

Lafayette Criminal Charges We Handle

At Rozas, our criminal law team is dedicated to defending clients against a wide range of criminal charges. Our experience covers everything from financial crimes and violent offenses to drug-related charges and more. We understand that these accusations can be daunting, and we're here to offer experienced, comprehensive legal representation. Our firm handles several types of criminal charges, including: 

• Homicide: If you're facing homicide charges, we can help. We know how serious these charges are, and we'll carefully build a defense strategy designed specifically for your situation.
• Drug Crimes: We can help you fight drug charges, including possession, selling, and making illegal drugs. We know the Louisiana drug laws inside and out and will work hard to defend your case.
• DUI/DWI: Facing DUI or DWI charges in Louisiana comes with serious consequences. We guide clients through the complexities of these charges, whether they are misdemeanors or felonies.
• Sex Crimes: We understand how sensitive sex crime cases are. We'll work carefully within Louisiana law to build the best defense possible for your case.
• Federal Crimes: Federal crimes are different from state crimes. We understand these differences and will fight to defend your case in federal court.
• Internet Crimes: We help people facing internet crimes, like identity theft and online harassment. We know these crimes can have serious consequences, and we'll fight hard to defend you.
• Temporary Restraining Order: We can help you get a temporary restraining order if needed. We'll guide you through the process and explain what documents and evidence are necessary.

With  Rozas, you'll have a legal team by your side that not only knows the law but also cares about your case.

Is It Possible to Clear My Criminal Record in Louisiana?

Not everyone in Louisiana can get their criminal record erased. It depends on what you were charged with, how long ago it happened, and how your case was resolved. However, it's important to note that not every offense is eligible for expungement, particularly serious crimes like:

• violence, sex offenses, some drug charges, and crimes against children.

If your crime is eligible for expungement

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  • 5 years for misdemeanors, without any new charges during that time.
  • 10 years for felonies, without any new charges during that time.
• The process of expungement can take 3 to 6 months, including paperwork and possible court appearances.

Getting a clean record can be complicated, but a skilled Lafayette criminal defense lawyer from a law firm like Rozas can streamline the process for you. They can guide you through the requirements, paperwork, and court appearances, making it easier to move forward with a clean slate. With their help, people who qualify can start fresh and leave certain parts of their past behind.