Boise Criminal Defense Attorney
How Can We Help?
Investigations and Case Management
- You may find yourself in need of our services right from the outset, before an arrest has even been made. In some cases, law enforcement officials may indicate their intention to proceed with your involvement in the case by sending search warrants, subpoenas or target letters. If the incident involves your workplace, your employer may also announce their intention to undertake a criminal investigation, or you may receive indications that someone around you is planning to look more closely into your conduct, or follow up on a prior incident.
- If you have suspicions that charges may be coming your way, it is important to contact an attorney as early as possible, so that we can ensure you have the best advice for how to proceed, and can advise you as soon as you have concerns.
Misdemeanor Offenses
- In some cases, your offence may be considered a misdemeanor, and this is typically punishable by a period of up to one year in jail, a fine, and, in offenses such as DUI, additional consequences such as the loss of a license or regular testing. If you are convicted of a misdemeanor, your case will be heard in the magistrate court - this is one down from district court, and will consist of a jury of six.
Felony Offenses
- Felonies are any crimes which may be punishable by over a year in jail, and are heard in the district court. Your case may begin in one of two ways; the first is that the prosecutor will file a complaint in the magistrate court, and a preliminary hearing will occur. If, after this, it is found that a crime has been committed, and there is probable cause to believe that the defendant was responsible, the case is moved to district court. Alternatively, a prosecutor may convene a grand jury - if the grand jury moves to indict the defendant, the case is moved to district court.
Once the case has been moved to court, there are two options available for the defendant:
pleading guilty or not guilty. A plea of not guilty will mean that a trial date is set, while a plea of guilty will see a sentencing hearing set. Prior to this, a probation officer, who works on behalf of the court, will conduct a “pre-sentence investigation”. The aim of this is to learn more about the defendant, and be ready to make a general sentencing recommendation to the judge in question.
Sentencing
What Are The Punishments For Burglary?
- Withheld Judgement
In some cases, a judge may make a decision to grant a “withheld judgement” for a conviction – this means that the judge will impose a sentence, usually probation along with other conditions such as a driving ban, license revocation, or community service. If the defendant successfully completes the sentence, they may have their case dismissed, and the conviction will not appear on their record. If, however, the sentence is not successfully completed, the court is able to resentence the individual, and the maximum sentence will usually be
imposed.
- Restitution
This can be a good option for those who may find their future prospects, career and opportunities severely hampered by a criminal conviction, while still ensuring that they are held responsible for their crimes. While the actual conviction is not expunged from the record, many requirements and consequences of a conviction – for example, having to pay for expensive, high risk insurance following a DUI conviction – may no longer be an issue.
What Are Your Next Steps?
If you have been convicted of drug crimes, it is imperative that you have a team of experienced, qualified attorneys on hand to assist you. Here at Boise DUI Attorney, we have
a wealth of experience in dealing with drugs crimes, and those involving controlled or dangerous substances. Get in touch today, and see how we could advise you on your ideal next steps, and the best way to proceed to try and ensure the best possible future and outcome for your case.
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