Hernando, Mississippi, Criminal Defense Attorneys
If you’re a resident of Hernando, Mississippi, a small town in metropolitan Memphis, and have had a run in with the law, the prospect of a criminal charge is likely (and understandably) quite scary. Mississippi laws have been crafted by the state’s legislature to punish suspected wrongdoers harshly and no one wants to face such severe penalties. The most serious punishments have been saved for those convicted of committing a violent crime, a category of offenses that involve harm, or threat of harm, to others.
Elected officials and members of law enforcement take violent crimes especially serious and work hard to appear to be tough on those perpetrating them. Even juries tend to be less lenient towards defendants facing serious criminal charges. It’s for this reason that it is so important to have a skilled Hernando criminal defense attorney in your corner, one who knows his way around a northern Mississippi courtroom and has spent years developing good working relationships with people on every side of the criminal justice system.
If you’re facing a violent criminal charge, whether it’s for robbery, aggravated assault, battery, domestic violence, kidnapping, rape, manslaughter or murder, it’s important to never give up hope. An experienced attorney knows how to work up a case and effectively analyze evidence, creating a legal plan that’s able to persuade judges and juries of your innocence.
It’s also important to understand that at trial you are presumed innocent until proven guilty. This means that prosecutors are faced with the job of convincing a jury that you are guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. There are many ways that a skilled Hernando criminal defense lawyer can rebut these claims, depending on the facts of your situation.
One avenue used by many defense attorneys is misidentification. It’s all too common that during the heat of a dangerous criminal encounter people become confused. They may not have actually seen what they thought they did and their memories can become fuzzy. Eyewitnesses may also have been coached or unfairly influenced to believe an innocent defendant was involved in a crime when they really had nothing to do with it. It’s common knowledge that the adrenaline present during any tense encounter makes eyewitness identifications some of the least reliable forms of evidence present in a criminal trial.
It’s also possible that your Hernando criminal defense lawyer could claim that you acted in self-defense. This means that your violent crime was only a result of your use of reasonable force to prevent someone else from causing harm to you. Though this may not apply in every situation, your attorney should know how to best frame a compelling defense.
Finally, a legitimate defense for many people wrongly accused of having committed a crime in Mississippi is to turn to forensic evidence. In many instances prosecutors have no DNA or fingerprint evidence tying suspects to crime scenes, something that should be highlighted by your defense attorney. Even in cases where such evidence has been found, there are many reasons why you may have previously been in the location that could explain the presence of your DNA.
How Can a Criminal Defense Attorney Help Me Navigate the Legal Process in Hernando?
De Soto County, where Hernando is located, had 303 violent crimes in 2023, down 23.68% compared to a year prior. Statistics for most forms of crime were down:
- -14% robberies
- -19.25% aggravated assaults
- -41.41% non-consensual sex offenses
We have 20+ years of experience as a Hernando criminal defense attorney and are known for standing by our client’s side through the entire legal process.
Your attorney can help you navigate the legal process in many ways:
- Representation: We’ll explain the legal procedures to you, determine the strength of your case and develop a strategy that gives you the best chance of success.
- Investigation: Your case relies on extensive evidence and investigation to be successful. We’ll interview witnesses, examine all evidence and try to find inconsistencies that can work in your favor.
- Counsel: We know the law – that’s why you hired us. Your attorney will advise you of the legal process ahead, the implications of a plea deal and the best course of action to take in your case. Our goal is to inform you of your rights and the legal road ahead.
- Advocacy: Your attorney will advocate on your behalf, represent you in court, present evidence and take charge of the legal proceedings.
Criminal defense matters are very serious, and an attorney will fight on your behalf to protect your rights and interests. If you’re facing criminal charges, your life may never be the same if you’re found guilty.
Your attorney will scrutinize evidence and handle negotiations to work towards the best outcome in your case.
If you’re in Hernando, MS or the surrounding area, our team is ready and waiting to provide you with the legal representation that you deserve.
Contact us today to request a free consultation.
What Are the Potential Consequences of Being Convicted of a Crime in Hernando?
Your case and circumstances are unique. The charges against you are serious, and if you have a criminal past, you may be facing even harsher punishments. For example, if you’re involved in a violent crime, the charges are quite serious.
Violent crimes include:
- Armed robbery
- Aggravated assault
- Rape
- Sexual assault
- Murder
- Domestic violence
Depending on the circumstances, you may be facing a misdemeanor or felony charge, with consequences including a combination of:
- Fines
- Imprisonment
- Probation
- Rehabilitation
On top of these punishments, you may lose the right to vote, and you may have your career impacted, too. If you’re convicted of a felony, it may affect your ability to seek employment or housing.
Without knowing the circumstances of your case, we can’t say for sure what consequences you face.
During our consultation, we’ll learn more about your case and will have a better understanding of the ramifications of a guilty verdict.
How Do I Choose the Right Criminal Defense Attorney to Represent Me in Hernando?
A criminal conviction can upend your life, affecting your job, your personal relationships and most importantly, your freedom. Much is at stake. It’s crucial to work with the right Hernando criminal defense attorney.
When choosing an attorney, consider the following questions:
- Do they have the right experience? Have they represented clients facing the same or similar charges? Attorneys with relevant experience will know how to build a solid defense and help you find the best course of action.
- Are they responsive? Criminal charges are serious. Your attorney should answer your questions in a timely manner and communicate with you regularly.
- Do you feel comfortable with the attorney? Your attorney will be representing you and advocating on your behalf. Make sure that you feel comfortable with them and can speak openly with them. Your attorney should explain things in a way that you can understand and have a genuine desire to help you with your case.
- Do they have a clear fee structure? Your attorney should explain their fee structure in simple terms, so you understand the cost of your defense and what to expect.
- Do they have a track record of success? Does the attorney have a positive reputation? Do they get results for clients?
Choosing an attorney is a personal decision and not one you should take lightly.
The experienced attorneys at Stroud, Flechas and Dalton have been defending clients in Hernando for more than two decades. We’re here to help navigate the complex legal system and advocate fiercely on your behalf.
How Stroud, Flechas & Dalton Can Help
If you’re facing criminal charges, you may be feeling overwhelmed, stressed and worried about your future. The attorneys at Stroud, Flechas and Dalton can help you understand your rights and find the best course of action to take in your case.
We have experience handling a wide range of criminal charges and are committed to helping our clients achieve the best possible outcome.