Criminal Lawyers in Louisville—FAQs
Individuals accused of crimes face serious consequences if convicted. Your Constitutional right to legal counsel should not be minimized. Bahe & Cook PLLC provides criminal defense to clients in Louisville and throughout the greater Louisville region. The firm offers answers to questions frequently asked by clients.
-What should I do if arrested?
-Why do I need a Louisville criminal lawyer?
-What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?
-What is the role of the Grand Jury?
-What is the difference between probation and parole?
What should I do if arrested?
Invoke your Constitutional rights:
-Remain silent
-Make no self-incriminating statements
-Do not submit to warrant-less searches or seizures
-Request legal counsel
Why do I need a Louisville criminal lawyer?
When your finances or freedom are at risk, you want a person dedicated to protecting your rights and interests. The average person does not understand the legal system, or how to navigate successfully through it. An experienced criminal lawyer in Louisville knows the law and the legal options available to you in your circumstances. When in legal trouble, it just makes sense to get legal help.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?
In general, misdemeanors are criminal offenses that do not seriously endanger society. They are usually considered lesser crimes with a penalty of no more than one year in jail. A felony is usually a serious crime that endangers society and its citizens such as murder, rape, and kidnapping. Felonies often carry harsh penalties including long prison sentences.
What is the role of the grand jury?
A grand jury determines whether or not to indict, which means to bring a formal, criminal charge against an individual for a felony.
What is the difference between probation and parole?
Probation is generally issued by a judge and it may be in lieu of jail time or in combination with lesser jail time. Usually additional restrictions (movement and/or activities) apply for the defendant during the probationary period.
Parole is granted to an already incarcerated person who has served some of his or her sentence. A parole board grants parole and may consider factors such as good behavior and level of rehabilitation in approving early release. Parole also imposes restrictions on the parolee during the parole period.