how much for a lawyer for first drug offense

How much does a lawyer charge for a misdemeanor?

A lawyer may charge a flat fee for a specific phase of the case (such as the preliminary/pretrial hearing and motions) or an hourly rate of $100-$300 or more.

Can an attorney lie to the court?

Anything you tell your attorney is confidential, but your attorney cannot lie to the court for you or knowingly offer a false defense. FindLaw.com explains what a criminal defense lawyer does [ 2] . There are laws governing all the steps in a criminal case, starting with the investigation, arrest, arraignment and bail procedures.

Why Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney?

The primary role of a criminal defense attorney is to represent the defendant (you), who has been accused of a certain crime or already have been charged with a criminal offense.

The Unique Complexity of the Case

Usually there are two extremely potent cost-affecting factors when it comes to criminal defense - it is the unique complexity of your case and seriousness of the case.

Your Criminal History (If Applicable)

The cost is also affected by your criminal history. The more legal trouble you've had in the past, the more the lawyer will have to work to make sure that those issues from your past - don't bring you down in the present.

How Much Do Lawyers Cost for Criminal Defense: Flat Fee vs Hourly Billing

As mentioned before, some lawyers bill by the hour for the provision of their services. This can be beneficial to those clients who know that their case is simple and straightforward.

Before You Meet With a Criminal Defense Attorney

Before you have your first meeting, you should consider what you want from your defense attorney in the first place. For example:

The Meeting

Now that your first meeting is underway, allow the attorney to begin. They will probably ask a tonne of questions and gather a full picture of the case.

Your Case - Your Choice

Now that you know everything about what a criminal defense attorney does, what affects the total cost for hiring one, and how to prepare and execute your first meeting. You are well on your way to taking control of your case and improving your chances of victory.

Texas Drug Courts

Fines for drug possession or any other drug offense can reach into the thousands and prison sentences can be as much as for life.

Why You Need a Houston Drug Crime Attorney

A first-time drug offense is not automatically sent to drug court. They must first be considered “eligible,” and this can be a tricky process. For most drug crimes that are considered to be violent cases, a person is not considered eligible for drug court.

Is possession of a drug a felony?

However, the type of drug is not the only factor that determines whether a drug charge is classed as a felony or misdemeanor. Possession of a small amount of a drug may constitute a misdemeanor, but possession of a large amount of drugs—even if they are lower on the schedule—could move the charges up to a felony.

What is a first offense felony?

If you or someone you know is facing a first offense felony drug charge, understanding the charges and possible penalties can be challenging. In general, felony drug charges are a more serious type of crime in that they result in more severe punishments; those charged may find themselves in prison or fined heavily.

Is heroin a felony?

Schedule 1 and 2 substances include drugs like heroin, cocaine and morphine, and drugs that fall into these categories typically qualify for a felony charge. However, the type of drug is not the only factor that determines whether a drug charge is classed as a felony or misdemeanor. Possession of a small amount of a drug may constitute ...

First Offender Program

Those who are charged with possession of illegal drugs for the first time may qualify for what is called the “first offender” program. Under this program, the judge withholds his or her decision about a case for one year.

First Time Drug Possession Sentence

Possession of Schedule I or Schedule II drugs, such as heroin or cocaine, is a class 5 felony offense punishable by up to 10 years in prison. Simple possession of marijuana is a misdemeanor offense punishable by up to 30 days in jail.

Is a first time drug offender a good person?

Many times a criminal defendant is a first time offender. The defendant may be a generally good person, who happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. Regardless of how the drug crime came about or was committed, is it really fair for someone who is a first time drug offender to be treated as a serious criminal for one misstep?

Is a first time offender a criminal?

Many times a criminal defendant is a first time offender. The defendant may be a generally good person, who happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Is a defendant a good person?

The defendant may be a generally good person, who happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. Regardless of how the drug crime came about or was committed, is it really fair for someone who is a first time drug offender to be treated as a serious criminal for one misstep?

What is the first offender act in Georgia?

Georgia First Offender Act. Georgia law (Title 42, Chapter 8, Article 3) offers special non-standard plea options in a handful of circumstances, and one of these special non-standard pleas is that the criminal defendant is a “first time offender”. As a first time offender, when entering a plea of nolo contendere ...

How long does a probationary sentence last?

When a defendant pleads guilty, the judge can decide to sentence the criminal defendant to 12 months probation, usually in conjunction with other requirements, and at the end of probation the possession charge will be dropped and will not show up in the defendant’s criminal record.