Marlborough Criminal Defense Lawyer

Facing criminal charges can be a humiliating and frightening process. In fact, the procedures involved seem designed to intimidate. You have legal rights and it is important to understand those rights to protect them.

Those facing allegations of criminal offenses in Marlborough must appear in court for an arraignment the day after an arrest. During the arraignment, the court may require additional bail or impose pre-trial conditions. A knowledgeable criminal attorney can help negotiate the conditions or may even be able to resolve your case without further court appearances.

If you contact an experienced Marlborough criminal lawyer as soon as possible, a skilled criminal attorney can explain the charges you are facing, outline your options, and advocate on your behalf throughout the entire process to help you reach the best possible outcome based on the unique circumstances of your case.

When a case goes to trial, the evidence presented can have a tremendous impact. Often the prosecution must prove that the person acted with a particular intent for the actions to constitute a crime. 

In other cases, evidence regarding injuries, the use of a weapon, or other factors may make the difference between finding that an action constituted a minor offense or a major felony.

The court decides based on the evidence presented. Testimony from witnesses, photographs, medical reports, expert opinions, and police records are some examples of evidence that a Marlborough criminal lawyer must analyze to formulate the defensive strategy suited to each individual case.

In general, most criminal offenses are either felonies or misdemeanors. A few minor actions may be civil infractions. A misdemeanor in Marlborough is a crime that is not punishable by a sentence in a state prison, although those facing these offenses may face incarceration in a different type of facility.

Some examples of misdemeanor offenses are disorderly conduct, first-time drunk driving offenses, shoplifting, possession of certain controlled substances, vandalism and disturbing the peace.

More serious offenses – those punishable by terms of imprisonment in a state prison – are felonies. Examples of felonies include receiving stolen property, the sale of controlled substances, arson, rape, kidnapping, subsequent drunk driving offenses, and embezzlement.

As noted above, felony offenses may be punishable by sentences in state prison that can range up to life imprisonment. A person may also have to pay substantial fines. In addition, felony convictions carry other serious consequences such as loss of certain constitutional rights.

While those facing misdemeanor offenses may not have to serve time in a state prison, they may face a term in a house of correction. Courts may also impose considerable fines. Even for these less serious offenses, there are unwanted additional consequences. A criminal record is visible to potential employers, lenders, landlords, and even friends and family and can negatively impact life for years to come.

Law enforcement officials, prosecutors, and other members of the criminal justice system are professionals with years of experience. To successfully fight criminal charges, it is wise to get experienced professionals working on your side to balance the equation.

An experienced Marlborough criminal attorney can work tirelessly on your behalf to uncover all necessary evidence and advocate to present your case in the best possible light to achieve the best outcome based on your unique circumstances. If you are facing criminal charges or fear you might soon face arrest, contact a Marlborough criminal lawyer to learn how they can help.