FAQ
Q: I’ve been arrested or charged with a crime. What now?
A: First of all, remain silent. Do not argue with police and do not resist arrest. Request immediately and often to speak with an attorney. Mississippi law requires anyone arrested and held in custody must be brought before a judge within 48 hours. Tell the judge clearly that you want a lawyer or you want to contact your lawyer. Do not sign anything that may potentially give up your rights. Make sure to preserve and document any potential evidence.
Again, Remain silent!
Q: Should I talk to the police without an attorney?
A: Absolutely not! It may seem like a good idea, it may even seem like the right thing to do, but nothing good will come from speaking to the police without an attorney present. If the police want to talk to you, you may already be a suspect. Talking to police without an experienced criminal defense attorney can only serve to give them “evidence”, even though you might think you are helping them and you have nothing to hide. If police try to talk to you, whether you are under arrest or not, refuse to answer any questions other than basic identifying information. Say clearly, “I want my lawyer,” or, “I want to speak to an attorney.”
Q: What is the difference between a felony and misdemeanor?
A: In Mississippi, felony charges are crime punishable by more than a year in the Mississippi Department of Corrections and possibly fines, probation, restitution and other punishments. Misdemeanors are less serious criminal charges, carrying less than a year in a county jail, fines, probation restitution and other punishments. Often, whether someone is charged with a felony or a misdemeanor can depend on having an experienced criminal defense lawyer.
Q: How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost?
A: Fees vary depending on many factors, but like most things, you get what you pay for. All billing is transparent and will work with you to manage payments that meet the clients needs.
Q: Will my criminal record always follow me?
A: Not necessarily. Mississippi law allows for criminal records, even some felonies, to be wiped clean, or “expunged” in certain situations. If you have a criminal record, call me to discuss getting it off your record.
If you have a pending charge call me to discuss keeping it off your record. In certain situations, Mississippi law might allow for a process called Non-Adjudication which can help keep you from being convicted of the crime with which you are charged.
Q: Shouldn’t I hire a former prosecutor to represent me?
A: Any lawyer can technically represent you in court. When your life, freedom, money and reputation are on the line, you want someone who knows how to defend people and has done it before. I’ve spent my entire career working for people who are charged with crimes, not charging people with crimes. I’ve learned how to craft a defense that works, how to tell your story and how to win in the courtroom.
The right experience matters.
Q: What should I look for in a criminal defense attorney?
A: Quite simply, experience and focus. Handling a criminal charge is one of the most serious and important things you will ever hire someone to do. The attorney you for your defense should have the experience and skill necessary to protect you and your rights. I’ve spent more than a decade representing Mississippians charged with every type of crime imaginable.
And how do you know? I have been working in this criminal justice system, day in and day out. I have won dozens of cases at trial and saved hundreds of people from the charges the State has brought against them. I can do the same for you. See Results.
You should also consider a lawyers ability to serve you, focus on your case, and advocate for your rights. I don’t do car wreck cases, I don’t handle divorces, my entire practice is dedicated to serving clients charged with crimes and facing criminal legal issues.
Q: What should I expect from my criminal defense attorney?
A: You should always expect your criminal defense attorney to examine the evidence against you, negotiate with the police or prosecutors on your behalf, and advocate a resolution, all while protecting your rights. My record proves my ability to use my skills and experience effectively for you. In my more than 10 years of experience as a full-time criminal defense attorney, I have developed the skills to analyze evidence from the prosecution but also conduct a thorough and real investigation for you. I have honed my knowledge of hands on investigation to provide leverage in advocating with the other side to reach a resolution, or ultimately prove to a jury a client should not be found guilty. I am ready and able to not only protect your rights but aggressively present your case and your story to the prosecution or a jury at trial. I have negotiated with the prosecution or met them in court hundreds of times. And I have won.