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Criminal Law

Criminal Law Lawyers in the United States

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Criminal Law in the United States

Criminal law encompasses the body of laws that define criminal offenses, regulate the apprehension, charging, and trial of suspected persons, and fix penalties and modes of treatment applicable to convicted offenders. In the United States, criminal law operates at both federal and state levels, covering everything from minor misdemeanors like traffic violations to serious felonies including murder, fraud, and drug trafficking. The American criminal justice system is built on the principle that defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. However, navigating criminal charges without proper legal representation can be overwhelming and potentially life-altering. Criminal convictions can result in imprisonment, hefty fines, probation, and long-lasting consequences including difficulty finding employment, housing, or obtaining professional licenses. Whether you're facing charges for the first time or dealing with repeat offenses, having an experienced criminal defense attorney is crucial to protecting your rights, understanding your options, and achieving the best possible outcome in your case.

How Criminal Law cases work

The criminal legal process begins with an arrest or citation, followed by booking and an initial appearance before a judge. During arraignment, charges are formally read and you enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. If you plead not guilty, the discovery phase begins where evidence is exchanged between prosecution and defense. Pre-trial motions may be filed to suppress evidence or dismiss charges. Many cases are resolved through plea negotiations, where your attorney works to reduce charges or penalties. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial where evidence is presented to a judge or jury. Throughout this process, constitutional protections including the right to remain silent, right to an attorney, and right to a fair trial must be preserved. Post-conviction, there may be opportunities for appeals or sentence modifications.

Common Criminal Law situations

Common criminal law situations include DUI/DWI charges, which can result in license suspension and jail time. Drug possession and trafficking charges carry severe federal and state penalties. Assault and battery cases involve allegations of physical harm or threats. Theft crimes range from shoplifting to grand larceny and burglary. White-collar crimes like fraud, embezzlement, and identity theft are increasingly prosecuted. Domestic violence charges carry special considerations and protective orders. Traffic violations can escalate to criminal charges, especially with repeat offenses. Federal crimes including tax evasion, immigration violations, and interstate commerce offenses require specialized defense strategies. Many people also need help with expungement or record sealing to clear past convictions, probation violations, and warrant issues that can lead to immediate arrest if not properly addressed.

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Why Go To Court?

Go To Court provides free general information about Criminal Law matters across the United States. Jen is an AI assistant, not a lawyer, and the information is not personal legal advice. Users may separately request a one-hour consultation with an appropriately licensed attorney for $195, subject to availability, conflicts and attorney acceptance.

Criminal Law lawyers by state

Our hotline covers all 50 states. Browse your state for local court information and Criminal Law resources.

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Frequently asked questions

What should I do if I'm arrested?
Remain calm and exercise your right to remain silent. Do not answer questions without an attorney present. Ask for a lawyer immediately and clearly state this request. Do not resist arrest, even if you believe it's unjustified. Avoid discussing your case with anyone except your attorney. Contact family or friends to arrange bail if possible, and document any injuries or improper treatment by law enforcement.
Can I represent myself in criminal court?
While you have the constitutional right to self-representation, it's strongly discouraged in criminal cases. Criminal law is complex, with intricate procedures, evidence rules, and potential penalties that require legal expertise. Prosecutors are experienced attorneys, putting unrepresented defendants at a significant disadvantage. Even minor criminal charges can have lasting consequences on your record, employment, and future opportunities that only skilled legal representation can help minimize.
What's the difference between a misdemeanor and felony?
Misdemeanors are less serious crimes typically punishable by up to one year in county jail, fines, community service, or probation. Examples include petty theft, simple assault, or first-time DUI. Felonies are more serious crimes carrying potential sentences of more than one year in state prison, substantial fines, and long-term consequences including loss of voting rights, professional licenses, and difficulty finding employment or housing.
How long do criminal charges stay on my record?
Criminal charges typically remain on your record permanently unless legally removed through expungement, sealing, or pardons. The availability and process vary significantly by state and type of charge. Some states automatically seal juvenile records, while others require petition processes. Factors affecting record clearing include the nature of the crime, time elapsed, subsequent criminal history, and completing all sentence requirements including probation.
What happens if I violate probation?
Probation violations can result in immediate arrest and detention. You'll face a probation revocation hearing where the court determines if a violation occurred. Unlike criminal trials, probation violations require only a preponderance of evidence standard, not beyond reasonable doubt. Consequences may include extended probation terms, additional conditions, community service, jail time, or serving the original suspended sentence. Having legal representation is crucial for these hearings.
Can police search my car without a warrant?
Police can search your vehicle without a warrant under specific circumstances: with your consent, if they have probable cause to believe it contains evidence of a crime, during a lawful arrest, or if evidence is in plain view. However, searches must still be reasonable in scope. If you believe your vehicle was illegally searched, don't argue during the stop but inform your attorney immediately, as illegally obtained evidence may be suppressed in court.
What is the statute of limitations for criminal charges?
Statutes of limitations vary by crime type and state jurisdiction. Serious felonies like murder typically have no time limit, while most other felonies range from 3-7 years. Misdemeanors usually have 1-3 year limitations. Federal crimes generally have 5-year statutes unless otherwise specified. The clock typically starts when the crime was committed, but some circumstances can pause or extend these timeframes, making legal consultation essential for specific situations.
Should I accept a plea bargain?
Plea bargain decisions require careful evaluation of evidence strength, potential trial outcomes, and consequences of conviction versus offered terms. While plea deals can reduce charges and penalties, they still result in criminal convictions with lasting impacts. Consider factors like evidence against you, witness credibility, legal defenses available, your criminal history, and personal circumstances. Never accept a plea without consulting an experienced criminal defense attorney who can properly assess your case.