In Louisiana, criminal charges fall into two broad categories – misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanors are the lowest level offenses such as traffic violations and petty theft and carry penalties of no more than one year in jail. Felonies are considered more serious and include violent crimes, arson, robbery and homicide.
If you are arrested for a felony, it is important that you seek the assistance of a louisiana criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. The sooner you get legal help, the more likely your crime will be dismissed or reduced. A knowledgeable attorney can help you navigate the criminal justice system and build a strong case for your innocence.
When you are facing murder charges, your life is on the line and it is crucial to act quickly to find a criminal defense lawyer in Louisiana that is familiar with these cases. A homicide conviction can lead to long incarceration or even the death penalty. A louisiana criminal defense lawyer who specializes in these cases can fight to have the charges dropped or reduced.
Drug possession is a common charge in Louisiana and has stiff penalties, but a good lawyer can use a number of different defenses such as illegal search and seizure or entrapment. An experienced louisiana criminal defense lawyer can also help with other serious felony cases such as burglary, embezzlement, and forgery.
In addition to state criminal law, the United States has federal crime laws. Convictions at the federal level have much harsher penalties than those at the state level. If you are facing a federal investigation or have been formally charged with a crime, it is critical to contact a louisiana criminal defense lawyer immediately.