Experienced Advocates Defending You Against Criminal Charges
If you have been charged with a crime, it is imperative that you become educated about the process. Unless you know the likely outcome of every option, you may make a decision that haunts you for the rest of your life. Hiring an experienced attorney with a track record of success is the first step.
At Usera & Snow, P.C., both of our award-winning attorneys have over 15 years of legal experience. Our team is ready to fight for your legal rights both in and out of the courtroom. We take the time to listen to your story and learn what is most important for you in your case. We explain every aspect of the law that might affect your case so that we can build a legal strategy together to meet your needs.
Our Criminal Defense Practice
Although our criminal law practice represents many driving under the influence of intoxicants (DUII) cases, we also represent people on all types of criminal cases, from misdemeanors up to Measure 11 crimes that carry mandatory minimum prison sentences. No case is too large or too small. Criminal charges that we routinely handle include:
- DUII and other traffic and driving infractions
- Drug charges at every level
- Gun and weapon-related offenses
- Assault and domestic violence offenses, as well as civil restraining orders
- Theft, burglary and robbery
- Sex crimes and other serious Measure 11 cases
- Probation and parole violations
- Expungements to clear your criminal record
Regardless of whether you have a criminal record or if it is your first offense, a strong defense strategy can help get reduced charges and penalties. In some cases, we may be able to work together to get the charges dropped altogether.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense
We know you have many questions regarding the charges you face. Most of them will be answered in your initial consultation, but you may find the answers to the following questions useful until that time.
What happens after an arrest?
Lesser charges often result in a citation or release agreement that directs you to appear in court at a set date. Arrests for felony charges generally lead to formal booking into police custody followed by an arraignment hearing. At the hearing, you will learn the charge and the amount of your bail.
When do I need a lawyer?
You should hire a lawyer as soon as possible, even if you think you might plead guilty. If you know you are under investigation for a crime but have not yet been charged, it is still critical to protect your constitutional rights. Freely submitting to police questioning is rarely the best option.
If you have already been arrested, the terms of your release and/or bail are usually determined at your first court appearance. Without a lawyer by your side to fight for your rights, the prosecutor may push for excessive bail or overly strict conditions of release.
The police want to question me – Should I answer their questions?
It is rarely in your best interest to submit to police questioning without an attorney. Police are trained in various interrogation techniques and are skilled at getting people to make statements that can later be used against them. By remaining silent, you eliminate saying something that could be interpreted the wrong way and lead to problems down the road.
How much does a consultation cost?
Consultations for both criminal and personal injury cases are free at Usera & Snow, P.C., and you are under no obligation to hire us. Consultations can occur both over the phone and/or in person. If you do hire us, we have three basic fee structures: flat fee, contingency fee and hourly. The structure of legal fees depends on the type of case.
What is the difference between parole and probation?
Parole is a conditional return to society after serving time. Probation is a type of sentence imposed on offenders instead of incarceration. Both are supervised and require the offender to follow rules and restrictions. Failure to comply can result in incarceration for the remainder of the sentence.
Is it possible to have my arrest or conviction expunged?
Expungement of an arrest or conviction removes it from your record. Not all crimes are eligible for expungement, including traffic offenses. Waiting periods for arrests and convictions differ.
Do you still have questions? Bring them to us for answers and we will build a personalized approach to creating your defense.
Don’t Wait. Contact Us Today.
Even minor infractions can have a devastating effect on your reputation and affect your chances for future employment. If you are facing criminal charges, contact our Salem office as soon as possible after you know you are in trouble so we can start building a legal strategy before the prosecution gets a head start. Call 503-868-4822 or fill out our online contact form to set up a free initial consultation.