Getting arrested with criminal charges is far more serious than a civil issue. This is because upon conviction, criminal charges attract very tough punitive judgment decisions. This is the reason you are supposed to consult an attorney as soon as you have been arrested. The state may offer to assign you an attorney, and it is your right to have an attorney, but, there are many reasons you will be better off with a private attorney. Here are a few of the things you need to understand about the process before hiring a criminal defense attorney in Portland, OR.
The sentences that are set for criminal cases
Crime is divided into felonies and misdemeanors. Felonies attract the heaviest sentences. Misdemeanors can get away with lesser sentences and even a fine. Note that there is a big difference between a pre-meditated crime and something that happened as an accident. Here are a few of these differences:
* Death: If you have been charged with a murder, your defense will be facilitated through criminal defense. This is different from wrongful death claims which can be brought before a civil court for settlement.
* Injury cases: In case you have been charged with a crime such as assault or battery, the defense case can only be heard before through criminal defense proceedings. On the other hand, if the injuries resulted from negligence, including wrongful death, the case can be heard in front of a civil court.
As stated, the difference between civil and criminal charges is mainly in the sentencing. Civil charges can only result in monetary restitution, while punitive measures must be taken against anyone found to be engaging in crime.
Formulating a defense
It is important to allow an experienced criminal defense attorney in Portland, OR to help you with your defense case. The line of defense that they adopt will depend on the nature of your crime and whether you have a past criminal record or not. In case a win looks impossible, the lawyer could opt for solutions such as plea bargaining.
These are things you need to know before hiring a criminal defense attorney in Portland, OR. To learn more about these processes, contact the The Law Office of Andrew M. Kohlmetz LLC.
