An arrest can throw your life off balance. No matter how it happened, the situation is serious, and what you do next matters. A Columbia criminal defense lawyer from Adams & Bischoff, P.C. could help you make sense of the legal process and guide you through each step of your case. If you have never dealt with the legal system before, it is hard to know what to expect, so having the right attorney by your side is essential.
What Happens After You Are Charged?
After an arrest, there will usually be a bond hearing, during which a judge decides whether to let you go home or hold you while your case moves forward. After the court sets dates for your case, you will receive a copy of the charges against you, and you may hear from the prosecutor.
People sometimes feel pressured to accept a plea deal early on, but this can be risky. These decisions carry real consequences, and it helps to have experienced legal counsel review your case and explain the possible outcomes. Our lawyers could examine the facts of your case, including how the arrest went down, what the officers did, what evidence they gathered, and whether they respected your rights.
You do not need to figure this out alone. A Columbia criminal defense attorney could ensure you meet the necessary court deadlines, communicate with the prosecutor on your behalf, and look for ways to push back when your rights are not being respected.
Common Charges We See
Our law firm takes on a variety of criminal cases in Columbia and the surrounding areas, including:
- DUI, including alcohol or drug-related charges and refusals
- Theft, whether it involves a store, an employer, or someone’s home
- Accusations of sexual assault
- Assault with injuries or with the use of a weapon
- Domestic violence cases, including repeat incidents
- Murder or manslaughter claims
Each case brings different issues. Some hinge on a witness statement, while others depend on police reports, test results, or video footage. Our attorneys evaluate all aspects of a case before determining the appropriate defense strategy.
How Our Lawyers Could Help You
Our job as Columbia criminal defense attorneys is to challenge the state’s version of events and help you decide the best way to respond to the charges against you. Sometimes, this means asking the court to throw out evidence or working towards a deal that keeps the penalties to a minimum. In other cases, it is best to take a case to trial. Our attorneys could help by:
- Reviewing evidence, including reports and videos, carefully
- Questioning how the police gathered evidence
- Evaluating how officers handled the stop or search that resulted in your arrest
- Ensuring you understand your legal options
- Preparing a full defense if your case goes to trial
We recognize that your case affects your name, freedom, and future, and we are committed to protecting your rights from start to finish.
Talk to a Criminal Defense Attorney in Columbia Today
Being charged with a crime is overwhelming, and you may be dealing with stress, deadlines, and a legal process that moves quickly. You do not have to wait until your court date to start getting help. At Adams & Bischoff, P.C., we take the time to understand your situation and figure out a plan that fits you, not just your charge.
Contact us now to talk with a Columbia criminal defense lawyer. The sooner we get involved, the more we can do to help you protect what matters.