Frequently Asked Questions

Who needs a criminal defense lawyer?

Some people think they can handle their criminal case on their own. After all, all you need to do is prove your innocence. However, doing so could end up being a terrible mistake. Any time you are charged with a crime, turn to the team at Austin Law Associates, P.C. to help ensure you get the best possible outcome for your case. Whether it is a misdemeanor or a felony, a crime is a crime in the eyes of the law. Don’t leave your future to chance by trying to go it alone. You should hire a lawyer as soon as you find out you are being charged with a crime. By hiring legal representation right from the start, your lawyer can begin building your case and formulating a plan of defense. They can begin gathering evidence and working on getting the charges dropped or reduced before you ever step foot in court. The sooner you can hire a lawyer, the better it will be for your case.



What are the types of crimes that require a criminal defense lawyer?

Some crimes carry huge penalties while others do not, but they will all end up on your criminal record if you are convicted. Some common cases where you need a criminal defense lawyer are:

If the crime involves the threat of jail time or prison time, you need to make sure you have someone who is trained and experienced representing your best interest.



What should I do if I get pulled over for drunk driving?

The first thing you should remember is your right to remain silent. If police suspect you of a crime, they will do whatever it takes to secure a conviction, including talking you into damning statements. They are not your friends, so remember to protect yourself. The next thing you need to do is hire competent legal representation. A good lawyer can make the use of available evidence and demonstrate your innocence.



If I committed the crime, do I deserve to serve a full prison sentence?

The law is not designed to condemn people. Instead, it helps protect people, but only when used wisely by a skilled lawyer. Whether or not you committed a crime, you are given the chance to tell your side of the story and get the best outcome for your situation. The Long Island criminal defense lawyer at Austin Law Associates, P.C. has helped many clients to have their charges either reduced or dropped altogether. Your future does not have to be left in ruins. Call Austin Law Associates, P.C. today for a free consultation.



How do I hire a criminal defense lawyer?

One of the first things you need to do to hire a criminal defense lawyer is schedule a consultation with them. You will go in and discuss the specifics of your case and what you can expect to happen at your hearings. They will tell you what they think they can do for you based on the information and evidence you give them. You want to make sure and take any documentation you have surrounding the case with you. Once you are comfortable with everything the attorney says, you will discuss their retainer fee, which can vary from firm to firm. Once you pay the fee, they can file the necessary paperwork with the court letting them know that you have legal representation. With so much at stake, you don’t want to wait around until it is too late. Turn to the team at Austin Law Associates, P.C. and save yourself a lot of hassles and trouble.



Not Guilty, Guilty & Innocent

When used in conjunction with a criminal case these terms have special meanings. Make sure you know the difference between Not Guilty and Innocent. A person who has done something wrong must be legally proven to be Guilty or will be deemed Not Guilty. Some other helpful facts include:

  • In 2004, there were 519,590 arrests in New York State—105,429 resulted in some term of incarceration (NYS division of criminal justice services)
  • Marijuana possession can affect your financial aid status
  • Persons with criminal records may be denied entry to or visa for foreign countries
You need to know your rights immediately. You need someone to protect them. The longer you wait, the greater chance evidence will disappear, memories will fade, and plea bargains will be lost. Call Austin Law Associates, P.C. today by dialing or contacting us online for a free consultation.



Case Dismissed

Felony Possession of a Controlled Substance

Police alleged they found drugs in client’s vehicle after traffic stop. After cross examination of the officer Court suppressed all drugs and charges were dismissed after hearing.