The traditional justice system and penalties, such as trials and incarceration, may not serve those facing drug charges and put them back on the right path. The drug court program in Louisiana provides an alternative sentencing option for such cases. According to the Louisiana Supreme Court, the ...
Blog
Why eyewitness testimony is often inaccurate
When you face a criminal charge and eyewitnesses say they saw what took place, the judge or jury deciding your case may put considerable stock in what those eyewitnesses have to say. Yet, eyewitness accounts are often fallible and inaccurate. This has led to many false convictions over the years....
Controlled Dangerous Substances: Sched II
Each of the five schedules of controlled substances has restrictions placed on access based on how potentially dangerous they are. Schedule II controlled substances are the most potent and potentially dangerous substances available with a doctor's prescription. While it is common for doctors to ...
Interacting with Police Officers at a Traffic Stop
Interacting with Police Officers at a Traffic Stop No one looks forward to an encounter with police, but it's difficult to go your entire adult life driving without being stopped by a law enforcement officer for one reason or another. Even if you were following all traffic laws, an officer might...
Avoid these mistakes during your DWI case
Getting arrested for drinking and driving is a serious offense associated with severe consequences. If convicted, you may have to pay a large fine, spend time in jail and go without your driving privileges for a period of time. According to the Louisiana State Legislature, you could face charges...
Can my attorney get Felony charges dismissed in Louisiana?
The key to successful dismissal is to present enough evidence to support the defendant's innocence before a bill of information or a grand jury indictment gets filed.
An Overview of DUI Penalties
On Behalf of Longman Jakuback | Jul 12, 2021 | DWI Charges | When facing driving while intoxicated charges, people may have concerns about what a conviction or guilty plea might mean. Even for a first-time offense, the court may impose a range of penalties, some of which may have lasting impli...
Should you accept a plea bargain?
Plea bargains can be excellent resolutions to stressful criminal matters, but each should be discussed with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
How can social media impact your case?
If you are accused of a crime, STAY OFF of Social Media.
Why are your Miranda rights so important?
An officer's failure to read you your rights will likely NOT invalidate an arrest.
Should I just pay my ticket in Louisiana?
When you receive a traffic ticket, it may be your initial reaction ....BUT, by simply paying the fine you are admitting guilt
What happens if I miss a court date?
A failure to appear will result in the issuance of a bench warrant. A bench warrant is an order authorizing your arrest. If a bench warrant has been issued for your arrest, you should contact an experienced criminal defense attorney to help you navigate the process of getting the bench warrant recalled as quickly and as smoothly as possible.
What are the collateral consequences of a domestic abuse conviction?
There are many severe consequences of being convicted of a domestic abuse offense, including being prohibited from owning or carrying a firearm. If you have been charged with a domestic abuse offense, you should contact an experienced criminal defense attorney. At the Lawrence Law Firm, our experienced criminal defense attorneys can help you navigate the process of fighting allegations of domestic abuse and can help preserve your rights.
Domestic Violence in a Pandemic
Since Louisiana has led the nation in female homicides for many years, it comes as no surprise law enforcement agencies continue to take a strong stance against domestic abuse and related crimes the COVID-19 pandemic continues to force people to stay at home and remain isolated. While such safety...
How quickly should I hire a DUI attorney?
If you have been arrested and charged with DUI, you should hire an experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you preserve your driving rights and develop a case strategy among other things. If you are facing DUI charges, contact Lawrence Law Firm for a free consultation with one of our experienced criminal defense attorneys.
Why should I hire a lawyer?
The criminal justice system is difficult to navigate alone, and there are many collateral consequences of certain convictions of which the average person may not be aware. Your chances of reaching a favorable result in your case improve greatly upon hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney. Call 318-232-4000 for a free consultation.
What is the difference between theft, robbery, and burglary?
A theft is the taking or misappropriation of anything of value that belongs to someone else without that person's consent. A robbery is the taking of anything of value from another person by means of force or intimidation. Both types of offenses are serious, and you need an experienced criminal defense attorney fighting for you if you are facing these charges. Call 318-232-4000 for a free consultation.
Will my juvenile criminal record disappear when I turn 18?
While juvenile records may not "go away" when the juvenile is no longer a minor, a juvenile record may be expunged. Contact Lawrence Law Firm for a free consultation and to discuss with an experienced criminal defense attorney whether your record is eligible for expungement. 318-232-4000.
How does alcohol affect my ability to drive, and what can I do to avoid a DUI?
Every drink you consume increases your blood-alcohol concentration (BAC). The higher your BAC levels are, the slower your response time and coordination become, which makes it more dangerous for you to operate a vehicle or other heavy equipment. The best way to avoid a DUI is to not get behind the wheel of a vehicle or operate heavy machinery after consuming alcohol. If you have been charged with DUI, you should contact a criminal defense attorney who is experienced in DUI defense. The attorneys at Lawrence Law Firm have reached favorable results for our clients charged with DUI. Call 318-232-4000 for a free consultation.
How do prescription drugs and other substances affect my driving?
Alcohol is most commonly associated with DUI, but it is not the only substance that can impair your ability to operate a vehicle safely. Other substances, including prescription drugs, recreational drugs, and even some over-the-counter medications can affect your coordination, depth perception, and reaction time, which impairs your ability to drive. If you have been arrested for DUI, you will need a criminal defense attorney experienced in DUI defense fighting for you. Contact Lawrence Law Firm at 318-232-4000 for a free consultation.
An Overview of Drug Paraphernalia Cases
Possession and drug paraphernalia allegations are serious and can carry severe consequences. If you are facing charges for possession of drug paraphernalia, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney fighting for you. Our attorneys at Lawrence Law Firm have successfully defended clients facing allegations of possession charges, and we can help you navigate this process and reach a favorable result in your case as well. Call 318-232-4000 for a free consultation.
Understanding Temporary Restraining Orders (TRO's) and Protective Orders
If you have been served with a temporary restraining order (TRO), you may be wondering what this means or what your responsibilities and restrictions are. A TRO may be issued for many reasons. In the domestic and criminal context, though, a TRO is typically petitioned for by a person who seeks pr...
What is the "right to remain silent?"
The right to remain silent is a right against self-incrimination afforded by the 5th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. This right is one of the many Miranda warnings that law enforcement is required to recite to you before questioning you when you are suspected of a crime. Your right to remain silent attaches from the moment your interaction with law enforcement begins. While police should not question you before reading or reciting to you your rights, your right to refrain from answering any questions can be invoked even before law enforcement Mirandizes you.
What should I expect when bonding someone out of jail?
Each parish has its own unique procedures for posting bail. Our first recommendation is to call the holding facility or detention center where your friend or loved one is being held to inquire about their specific process. If you have difficulty, an experienced criminal defense attorney may be able to help guide you through the process.
What is Pre-Trial Diversion?
Pre-trial diversion is an option that affords certain qualifying defendants the opportunity to avoid having a conviction on their record. While pre-trial diversion may be beneficial to many defendants, it is still important to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney who is familiar with these programs and can help you weigh your options before accepting an offer from the DA's office. Call 318-232-4000 to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney about your case.