Salem Criminal Lawyer
If you are facing criminal charges in Salem, a skilled criminal lawyer may be able to help you.
Many more people face criminal charges than is realized, and oftentimes the court rules that many individuals facing those charges are innocent. This is one of the many reasons why it is important to have an experienced Salem criminal lawyer on your side to help guide you through the process. In some cases, an attorney may even be able to get the charges against you reduced or dismissed.
Potential Impact of Criminal Charges in Salem
No matter the offense and potential consequences, criminal charges can seriously impact a person’s life, and far into the future.
With technology as available as it is today, and many background check agencies and software programs easily accessible, employers, lenders, landlords, and neighbors can quickly view a person’s criminal record. A negative criminal background check can affect where a person can work, live, volunteer or in some cases, spend their time. It can also impact whether a person can legally own firearms, vote, or drive.
Fortunately, a Salem criminal defense attorney may be able to negotiate with the prosecutors to reduce charges to a lesser offense, or ask the court to dismiss the charges altogether.
First-Time Offenses and Subsequent Convictions
When it comes to facing charges, prosecutors are typically more willing to work with an accused first-time offender who has an otherwise clean record. However, someone facing criminal charges with a history of prior offenses may see harsher penalties for subsequent convictions, even if the conviction is for a similar offense.
A Salem criminal attorney is experienced in analyzing the facts of the case and determining whether it may be best to proceed to trial – especially if the defendant feels they face these charges wrongly – or negotiate with prosecutors.
Common Criminal Offenses in Salem
There are numerous types of charges a Salem resident may face – including violations, misdemeanors, and felonies. The severity of the penalties depends on the seriousness of the offense, and whether it is a first-offense or subsequent charge. However, the circumstances surrounding the alleged crime can also have an impact on the potential consequences. For example, an act of violence in self-defense is different from an unprovoked attack.
Salem’s crime rate is slightly higher than the national average, especially for non-violent theft offenses. Some of the most common criminal offenses that defendants are charged with include but are not limited to:
- Robbery
- Assault
- Domestic violence
- Rape
- Drug charges
- Fraud
- Traffic violations
- DUI
Consult an Experienced Salem Criminal Defense Attorney Today
Regardless of the type of charges you are facing, or the severity of the potential penalties, contact an experienced Salem criminal lawyer who can fight to clear your name, secure your freedom, and help you put this experience behind you.
You should not have to face your criminal charges on your own. Call today for a free consultation.