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Criminal Defense Overview

Gary, Indiana Criminal Defense Lawyer Tony Zirkle brings depth of experience and attention to detail to the pursuit of a favorable outcome in every criminal defense case. People who have been charged or arrested for drug charges, assault, or theft are strongly urged to have their cases reviewed by criminal defense attorney Tony Zirkle.

The following information on criminal law is provided as a courtesy by the Law Offices of Tony Zirkle. It is not intended to address the particulars of your felony or misdemeanor case. To schedule a free case evaluation through an initial phone consultation with an experienced Gary and Indianapolis semi tractor trailer accident attorney, contact criminal defense attorney Zirkle by email through this Web site or by phone at 574.386.7960.

Criminal law is the body of law that relates to so-called "public wrongs." Criminal law does not concern itself with disputes between individuals, but relates to offenses against the public order. The federal government, along with cities and states, define and prosecute people who commit crimes that range from minor traffic violations, to serious, violent offenses, like rape or murder. People who are charged with a crime are called defendants, and they are represented by criminal defense attorneys. The governmental body that pursues the charges against the defendant is represented by a lawyer called a prosecutor. If you find yourself charged with a crime, you need the legal counsel of an experienced criminal defense attorney, to protect your rights now, and in the future.

Crimes that are regarded as less serious are referred to as misdemeanors. A misdemeanor usually is punishable by a fine, or by incarceration in a local jail for a period of less than one year. Prosecutors typically do not convene a grand jury to investigate or issue indictments for misdemeanor charges, although the same conduct may give rise to both felony and misdemeanor charges. Misdemeanors are usually charged by a written complaint, or "information." In some states, poor defendants are not entitled to a court-appointed attorney when charged only with a misdemeanor. The charges may be considered minor, but being accused of a misdemeanor--not to mention being convicted of one--can cause a major disruption in the life of an accused. As in any criminal case, it is essential that a defendant in a misdemeanor prosecution have zealous representation backing him or her up. A person accused of a misdemeanor should seek the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney.

The most serious types of crimes are referred to as felonies. The usual definition is that a felony is any crime that may be punished by more than a year's imprisonment, or death. A crime that has a maximum sentence of a monetary fine, or a short period of confinement in the local jail is not a felony. A statute may not specifically label an offense as a felony, but the punishment defines the offense as a felony. State criminal codes may call a crime an "aggravated" or "gross" misdemeanor, but the offense calls for a sentence of more than one year in the state penal system. Those offenses will be treated as felonies. When crimes charged are more serious, the need for an experienced criminal defense attorney to help a defendant through the process becomes even greater.

Employers have in recent years become increasingly concerned about knowing whether an applicant has a criminal record. Part of this concern stems from large jury verdicts that have been rendered against employers for negligently hiring a person with a criminal record who ultimately harms others, and the employer is held responsible. As a result, some companies conduct pre-employment background checks for criminal records and choose not to hire former convicts. Yet without the opportunity for future employment, how can those with a criminal record be afforded a chance to make a fresh start and become contributing members of society? These and other questions are addressed below and can be more fully explained by someone knowledgeable in criminal defense law.

Call or email Gary, Indiana Criminal Defense Lawyer Tony Zirkle for a prompt, personal response and to schedule a free phone consultation.

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Criminal Defense Overview » Attorneys and Lawyers Serving Lake Co., Marion Co. and St. Joseph Co. Indiana

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