Cedar Rapids Criminal Defense Attorneys

Protecting the Rights of the Accused for Over 30 Years

An arrest can be devastating to you and your family. Arrests and criminal convictions not only stay on your record, but they are accessible by employers and members of the public. A criminal conviction can affect not only your liberty, but your ability to obtain or maintain employment. At Howes Law Firm, P.C., we believe that if you have been accused of a crime, you deserve quality legal representation.

OurCedar Rapids criminal defense attorneys are here to passionately protect your legal rights in any criminal proceeding. Let us put our extensive legal experience to work fighting for a positive outcome. Whether you have been charged with DUI, a drug crime, or a violent crime, we will work diligently on your behalf every step of the way. If your criminal charge is one we believe could better be handled by one of our colleagues, we will make that referral for you.

Call Howes Law Firm, P.C. at (319) 264-2922.

Arrest

Being arrested is traumatic, It is understandable that you may be upset, fearful, and not thinking logically. The most important thing to remember is that you have a constitutionally protected right to remain silent. You also have the right to consult with a lawyer. You should exercise both of those rights. What you say or information you provide to law enforcement may adversely affect the outcome of your case. Do provide your name and address and politely insist that you do not want to talk further, and that you want a lawyer. An exception to this rule would be first offense drunk driving charge where there are consequences for not taking the requested test for alcohol or drugs. Given the time of many of these arrests, consulting with legal counsel may be difficult. However, you should make every attempt to at least talk by phone with an attorney.

Criminal Procedure in Iowa

Criminal procedure in Iowa is controlled by the Iowa Constitution and Statutes as well as certain Federal laws and the United States Constitution. There are timelines that need to be followed and the prosecuting attorney is required to turn over exculpatory evidence. This is evidence that would help prove you are not guilty of the crime with which you have been charged. You are entitled to a trial by jury and to have a lawyer with you at all stages. Your lawyer can cross examine witnesses and you can call your own witnesses. You can testify if you wish, but cannot be forced to do so. To be found guilty, there must be a unanimous verdict with evidence "beyond a reasonable doubt". This is the highest amount of proof required in our legal system.

The decision to take a case to trial or to accept a plea agreement is dependent upon the specific facts of your case. The evidence against you, the likelihood of conviction, any plea offer all have to be carefully considered. For certain offenses there are diversion programs that avoid a criminal conviction if the probation requirements are completed.

Other issues related to Criminal Charges or Convictions

Often called collateral consequences, merely being charged with certain crimes, or convictions for hwat might be considered a minor offense, can cause problems in other area of your life. For example, your drivers license can be suspended for being charged with DUI, even if a jury found you not guilty. A plea to a marijuana offense might render you unable to work in a day-care. Your ability to travel to other countries may also be affected. A plea to a charge improperly filed as domestic abuse will result in you being unable to ever own or possess a firearm.

Entrust your case to our experienced attorneys. Schedule an appointment with our Cedar Rapids criminal defense team for more information.