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Nebraska Criminal Defense Lawyers
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Nebraska Criminal Defense Lawyers
If you have been charged with a crime in Nebraska, having an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side can make all the difference. Criminal charges can carry severe consequences like jail time, fines, probation and a criminal record. Having an advocate who understands the complexities of Nebraska criminal law is essential.
In this article, we’ll provide an overview of criminal defense in Nebraska – the laws, typical charges, and how an attorney can defend your rights. We’ll also highlight some of the top criminal defense firms and lawyers in the state.
Nebraska Criminal Law Overview
In Nebraska, criminal law is governed by the Nebraska Criminal Code. This covers everything from traffic violations to violent felonies. Some of the most common criminal charges in Nebraska include:
- DUI/DWI
- Assault and battery
- Domestic violence
- Drug possession and trafficking
- Sex crimes
- Theft/larceny
- Weapons charges
Penalties vary widely based on the crime and circumstances. For example, a first DUI conviction may only involve probation and fines, while aggravated assault can carry decades in prison. Having an attorney who understands sentencing guidelines is key.
Key Nebraska Criminal Defense Laws
There are certain laws and rights in Nebraska that give defendants a fair legal process:
- The Nebraska Constitution guarantees the right to counsel and due process.
- The state has the burden of proof to show guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
- For misdemeanors, defendants have the right to a jury trial and public defender if they cannot afford a lawyer.
- The insanity defense and “diminished capacity” defenses are allowed in some cases.
An experienced lawyer will know how to leverage these protections for the best possible outcome in your case.
How a Nebraska Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Defend You
From the moment you are charged, a criminal defense lawyer can advocate for your rights in several key ways:
Investigate the Charges
Your attorney will thoroughly examine the prosecution’s evidence and claims. If flaws or lack of evidence exist, they can file motions to have charges dismissed or reduced.
Negotiate with the Prosecutor
In many cases, your lawyer can negotiate with the prosecutor for a plea deal to lesser charges or a sentencing recommendation. This can happen before or after charges are filed.
Suppress Illegally Obtained Evidence
If police violated your rights or did not have probable cause for things like search warrants, your lawyer can file motions to suppress evidence from being used against you.
Assert Constitutional Rights
Your lawyer will ensure you do not incriminate yourself and that your rights to due process and a speedy trial are upheld.
Present Legal Defenses
There are many defenses that could lead to acquittal or mitigation. For example, self-defense, insanity, diminished capacity, or mistaken identity.
Negotiate Plea Bargains
Rather than risk trial, your attorney may be able to negotiate a plea deal resulting in lesser penalties like reduced charges, lower sentences, or dropped enhancements.
Provide Strong Representation at Trial
If a trial is necessary, your lawyer will aggressively question witnesses, present evidence, and argue to the jury for acquittal or lesser charges.
Finding the Right Nebraska Criminal Defense Lawyer
It’s important to have an attorney with experience specifically in Nebraska criminal law. Factors to consider include:
- Years of criminal defense experience
- Familiarity with local courts and prosecutors
- Track record of positive case results
- Resources to thoroughly investigate your case
- Skill negotiating with prosecutors
- Ability taking cases to trial if needed
Don’t take chances with your freedom and criminal record – hire the right lawyer for your specific charges.