The criminal justice system can be a confusing and scary place when you’ve been accused of a crime.
Where do you turn? Who can you trust?

What are your options?

Immediate Contact with the Prosecutor

I often call the prosecutor immediately because they don’t have to charge you just because you were arrested. There is time between your arrest and the formal filing of charges. Sometimes with a call or email I can speak to the State to try to preempt the filing of charges. This action can sometimes persuade the prosecutor to file a lesser charge or not to prosecute you at all.

Diversion Programs

Sometimes you are eligible for programs that postpone your prosecution including some DUI’s. If you are eligible, the judge agrees to dismiss the criminal charges when you complete all conditions of the program.

Plea Bargains

This is an agreement negotiated by your attorney between the prosecutor and you. Even before your court appearance, a plea bargain may help you:

• Avoid a formal trial
• Avoid losing your job
• Avoid convictions
• Allow more time to pay your fines and court costs
• Know what will likely happen to you before going to court

Withholding of Adjudication

Avoids a formal criminal conviction on your record. In other words, you are not found “guilty” of the charge you may deny ever having been convicted of this charge. Further, getting a withhold often means you are eligible for a sealing or expungement.

Plea in Absentia

Allows the case to be settled without a trial or even your appearance in court. Your case will be resolved in-office and you can avoid the stress of attending court.

Treatment or Jail

Many people suffer from addictions, emotional and psychological problems and need treatment, not jail or prison time. We can help you find a treatment facility, treatment provider, and other avenues to seek rehabilitation and not jail times.

Sealing and Expunging of Criminal Records

Allows you to truthfully state, with few exceptions, that you were never arrested or charged with a crime Sealings mean that all information regarding your case is sealed and can be unsealed later if need be. Expungements are the actual destruction of your criminal records (both paper and digital).