A legal defense attorney in Louisiana focused on drafting a legal document, illustrating their professional responsibilities.

What Is the Role of a Legal Defense Attorney in Louisiana?

When facing criminal charges in Louisiana, hiring a legal defense attorney is one of the most important decisions you can make. Navigating the complexities of the legal system requires a deep understanding of Louisiana law, strategic thinking, and a commitment to protecting your rights.

Two men sit at a table while discussing the legal aspects of kidnapping.

Kidnapping: What Are Its Legal Consequences?

Being accused of kidnapping in Louisiana is a dire and frightening situation. Kidnapping charges carry severe legal consequences that can impact your life and future significantly. It’s essential to understand what you’re facing and to get legal counsel immediately to protect your rights and build a strong defense.

A gavel, handcuffs, and glasses arranged on a wooden table, symbolizing the work of a criminal law attorney.

Criminal Law Attorney: What Are the Factors to Consider?

Facing criminal law charges can be an overwhelming and distressing experience. Having a seasoned criminal law attorney by your side is essential during such challenging times. Hiring the right criminal law lawyer can make a significant difference in the result of your case. It’s crucial, therefore, to carefully weigh your options and choose someone qualified and with whom you feel comfortable.

A courtroom scene features a lawyer focused on a murder defense, with the scales of justice and a gavel nearby.

Murder Defense: How Can a Lawyer Help

Facing a murder charge can be a devastating experience with life-altering consequences. It’s crucial to understand that you’re not alone in this battle. A qualified defense attorney can offer valuable advice and support to safeguard your rights and pursue a favorable outcome.

A lawyer arraignment

What Qualities Make a Well-Experienced Defense Lawyer?

If you have been charged with a crime, you should consider hiring a well-experienced defense lawyer in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to help you get those charges dropped, dismissed, or reduced before trial, present the best possible defense at trial, and, if necessary, present mitigating evidence for a reduced sentence. Determining which criminal defense attorney is right for you, and how to retain that attorney’s services, may feel overwhelmingly difficult to you. Over the past ten years, there has been an almost 20% increase in the US lawyer population. What is the best way to locate a local attorney when there are so many of them? Well, you must first know what traits to look for in an attorney.

If you have been arrested and charged with a crime, contact a knowledgeable and experienced defense lawyer as soon as possible. With years of expertise defending clients against all kinds of criminal accusations, David E. Stanley, APLC, will bring high energy and maximum effort to secure the best outcome for your case.

Are You Looking for a Well-Experienced
Defense Lawyer in Baton Rouge, LA?
Contact David E Stanley, APLC,

Qualities to Look For in a
Criminal Defense Attorney

Here are the qualities to look for in a well-experienced criminal defense lawyer in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. By keeping these qualities in mind, you can find a trustworthy lawyer. Choosing a well-experienced defense lawyer can assist you in avoiding or reducing jail time, so you must find the absolute best.

A Defense Lawyer
  • Qualified

The most qualified criminal defense attorney in your area will have finished three years of legal education and focus solely on criminal defense. They will be authorities in criminal process, legal writing, and research. Additionally, your lawyer ought to be well-versed in the criminal justice system. After graduating from law school, your attorney ought to have been admitted to the bar in your state. They could also be accepted to the bars of more US District Courts. Be bold and inquire about your lawyer’s educational background, area of expertise, and area of specialization.

  • Experience

Looking up a lawyer’s area of expertise on their website is an excellent way to determine if they are a good fit for your particular criminal charges. Is “criminal defense” one of the practice areas mentioned? You can also find out from potential attorneys what kind of cases like yours they have handled. Can they provide an example of someone who is going through anything similar? What was the result, and how did they approach it? Find out from your attorney what proportion of their cases are related to criminal defense. How frequently does the defendant get a favorable outcome in these cases? You should be able to tell from your lawyer’s responses how much experience they have defending people in comparable circumstances.

  • Good Judgment and Ethics

Think about the ethics of each criminal defense lawyer you are researching. Can you trust them? Usually, it’s hard to know after just one consulting session. Instead, look them up online to see if they have an ethics code. Here are some guidelines:

  • Verify whether any complaints have been made against them.
  • Have they received a lot of negative reviews?
  • Have they had any issues with the state bar where they currently practice or formerly practiced?
  • Have any complaints been made against them? To learn more about the attorney’s reputation, check out the website of the state bar association in which they practice.
  • Are they a member of the Better Business Bureau?
  • Additionally, you read internet reviews. Reviews are available for their Google My Business and Better Business Bureau listings. 

Locating a well-experienced defense lawyer with high moral standards that you can trust to do right by you is crucial. Select a reliable person. What about their assessment? Look for an attorney who can quickly form an opinion after hearing the other side’s case. Your case may succeed or fail based on their quick thinking. 

  • Empathetic but Proactive

Empathetic and proactive may seem like an odd combination, but both are often necessary and appropriate in criminal defense. Selecting a lawyer solely interested in collecting a lower fee for a quick guilty plea is not advisable. They may not be concerned about your well-being and best interests, and may not do the work necessary to properly investigate and evaluate your case to uncover all of the defenses and options available to you.. Some attorneys may recommend that you accept an undesirable plea to avoid the time and expense of taking your case to trial. Instead, seek out a lawyer who genuinely cares about you and is empathetic to your problems and concerns. Being accused of a crime is a complex and frequently frightening process. Your safety and well-being should be your lawyer’s top priority. They can even assist in preserving your privacy by shielding you from exposure in the public eye. Sometimes, proactive tactics are also essentia and necessary in criminal proceedings. A lawyer who is committed to actively fighting for you and your legal rights, rather than sitting back and reacting to the actions of the prosecutor,  is what you need. Are they ready to defend you? Will they take proactive steps to improve your defense case? Taking quick action to implement a strong defense strategy at the appropriate moment may lead to a more favorable resolution of your case. 

A Well-Experienced Defense Lawyer
  • Honest About Fees

Most criminal defense lawyers charge a fixed fee for their legal services or, in some cases, may charge for their time at their hourly rate for all time spent working on your case. In addition to the attorney’s fee, the client is also responsible for paying all of the case costs.  The type of fee charged, and the total amount of the attorney’s fee for the representation depends on a number of factors.  Some of these factors are the total number of charges filed against you, the severity of those charges, and the amount of time necessary for your lawyer to properly defend you on those charges. 

Sometimes, a less experienced and less expensive lawyer may be the best choice to handle your case particularly if you are charged with a misdemeanor, a relatively low level felony offense, or if you are on a very limited budget.  However, if you are charged with a serious felony charge such as murder, manslaughter, rape or any other sex crime, kidnaping, arson, armed robbery, home invasion, manufacturing or distribution of drugs or narcotics, or similar offenses, hiring a less experienced lawyer who charges the lowest fee may not be the best choice.  Hiring an aggressive and experienced defense lawyer who is willing and capable of fighting your charges in court to help you reach your desired outcome is a much better investment that may help shield you from the life altering consequences resulting from a conviction of a serious felony charge. 

A Well-Experienced Defense Lawyer
  • Strong Negotiating Skills

Selecting a defense lawyer with excellent negotiation skills is essential. Not every situation is clear-cut, so you’ll need a lawyer to assist you in negotiating for the best result. Your interactions and experience with them will give you a sense of how skilled they are in this area.

  • Great Communication

It can be challenging for those outside the legal community to comprehend technical legal jargon and court procedures. A competent attorney can clearly explain them to you and provide you with the information you need to understand them. Additionally, they will answer your calls, emails, and queries promptly. Make sure your lawyer is aware of any preferred communication methods you may have. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney in Louisiana? 

You should hire a criminal defense attorney in Louisiana as soon as you become aware that you may be charged with a crime. This includes if you believe you are under investigation for a crime or in connection with a crime.

What Type of Cases Does David E. Stanley, APLC Handle in Louisiana?

Mr. Stanley handles complex or serious felony criminal cases in all federal and state courts in Louisiana including, but not limited to, murder, manslaughter, homicide, arson, kidnaping, sex crimes, manufacture and distribution of drugs, narcotics, and other controlled dangerous substances, money laundering, firearms and weapons crimes, RICO and white-collar crimes, and other serious felony crimes. 

Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer Get My Criminal Charges Dropped or Reduced?

A criminal defense lawyer may be able to help get your criminal charges dropped, dismissed, or reduced and assist you with developing mitigation evidence for use in seeking a reduced sentence.  This is because a qualified criminal defense attorney will work hard to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. While no guarantees can be made, they may negotiate for reduced charges, dismissals, or favorable plea deals.

Can I Appeal a Conviction or Sentence in Louisiana?

Yes, you can appeal a conviction or sentence. Consult with an appellate attorney to explore the grounds and process for filing an appeal.

 

A Well-Experienced
Defense Lawyer in Louisiana

Are you seeking a qualified and well-experienced defense lawyer in Baton Rouge, Louisiana? Look no further than David E. Stanley, APLC. David Stanley is a criminal defense lawyer in Baton Rouge, LA. David E. Stanley, APLC, is energetic and works hard to ensure that each client receives the best possible outcome. Contact David Stanley today to discuss your criminal case and get started taking back your life. 

Call David E. Stanley, APLC, at (225) 926-0200 Today

David E. Stanley, APLC
1055 Laurel Street, Suite 2
Baton Rouge, LA 70802
225-926-0200

 

Drug Crime Evidence

What to Assess When Choosing a Drug Crime Lawyer?

Drug Crime Lawyer

Drug crimes have severe penalties in Louisiana. A drug conviction can have a significant negative influence on your life. It might result in job loss, make it challenging to find new employment, or even cause you to lose custody of your children. These are only a handful of the legal consequences of felony drug convictions. When selecting a drug crime lawyer who can adequately manage your drug case, you must pick one who is skilled, informed, and reliable. Here’s where David E. Stanley, APLC’s drug crime attorney, may assist you. 

Consult a Drug Crime Lawyer
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The Factors to Consider When Hiring a
Drug Crime Lawyer in Louisiana

When hiring a drug crime lawyer in Louisiana, several vital factors should be considered to ensure you secure the proper legal representation for your case. Louisiana, like many states, has stringent drug laws, and navigating through legal complexities requires expertise. Here are the key considerations that can guide you in making an informed decision when selecting a drug crime lawyer.

  • Experience and Expertise

One of the paramount factors to consider is the lawyer’s experience handling drug crime cases. Look for a criminal defense lawyer who is focused on drug-related offenses. This expertise is vital as drug cases can involve intricate legal issues, including search and seizure laws, evidence admissibility, and understanding the specific drug statutes in Louisiana.

  • Knowledge of Louisiana Drug Laws

Louisiana has its own set of drug laws that can vary from federal regulations. A knowledgeable drug crime lawyer should be well-versed in state and federal drug laws to build a robust defense strategy. Understanding the nuances of Louisiana’s Controlled Dangerous Substance (CDS) laws and penalties is essential for effective representation.

Drug Crime Lawyer
  • Track Record of Success

Review the lawyer’s track record in handling drug crime cases. Success in similar cases indicates the lawyer’s competence and ability to navigate the complexities of drug-related legal proceedings. A drug crime lawyer with a history of securing favorable outcomes for clients facing drug charges will likely be better at handling your drug crime case effectively.

  • Client Reviews and Testimonials 

Seek feedback from previous drug crime clients to gain insights into the lawyer’s reputation and client satisfaction. Reviews and testimonials can offer good information about the lawyer’s communication skills, responsiveness, and effectiveness in handling drug crime cases. 

  • Communication Skills

Effective communication is crucial in legal proceedings. Ensure the drug crime lawyer you choose is knowledgeable and can communicate complex legal concepts clearly and understandably. A drug crime lawyer with solid communication skills will keep you informed about the progress of your case and explain legal options in a way you can comprehend.

  • Availability and Accessibility

Consider the lawyer’s availability and accessibility. Legal matters can be time-sensitive, and having a drug crime lawyer who can promptly respond to your queries and address concerns is vital. Clarify the expected response times and communication channels to ensure understanding.

  • Client-Attorney Privilege

Ensure the lawyer respects and upholds client-attorney privilege. Trust and confidentiality are crucial in legal matters, and a lawyer who values the sanctity of this privilege will create an environment where you can openly discuss details of your case without fear of unauthorized disclosure.

  • Negotiation Skills

Many criminal cases, including drug crimes, are resolved through negotiations. A skilled negotiator can secure a more favorable plea deal or reduced charges. Assess the lawyer’s negotiation skills and ability to work with prosecutors to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

A Drug Crime Lawyer
  • Local Court Experience

Familiarity with Louisiana local court procedures and personnel can be advantageous. A lawyer with experience in Louisiana’s court system may have insights into local judges, prosecutors, and court practices, potentially influencing the outcome of your case.

Hiring a drug crime lawyer in Louisiana demands a thoughtful and thorough approach. Considering the above factors, you can raise your chances of securing competent legal representation tailored to the state’s unique complexities of drug-related offenses. Remember, the right drug crime lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your drug crime case, and investing time in selecting the appropriate legal counsel is a crucial step in safeguarding your rights and future.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What Is a Drug Crime Defense Attorney?

A drug crime lawyer can help you present your case effectively and truthfully to obtain the best outcome or sentence possible. Even if you may not be able to ultimately avoid a conviction or guilty plea, getting assistance from someone who can strengthen your case or present mitigating evidence to lower the charge may help you achieve a more favorable outcome or a lighter sentence. 

What Do Drug Crime Defense Attorneys Do?

Drug defense attorneys have an extensive understanding of the legal system, allowing them to represent you effectively. Furthermore, a lawyer focusing exclusively on drug charges would undoubtedly know how to act, what to say, and how to behave in court. They will also be able to counsel you on these matters.

What Types of Drug Offenses are Common in Louisiana, and How can a Specialized Lawyer help?

A drug crimes lawyer can help by knowing the specific types of drug offenses that are common in Louisiana. Louisiana deals with various drug offenses, including possession, cultivation, manufacture, distribution, and trafficking. A specialized lawyer can navigate these charges, building a defense tailored to the specific allegations made against you and the particular charges filed by the district attorney.

What Are the Defenses against Drug Crime?

The most common defenses against drug crime are:

  • The drug found was the product of an unlawful search and seizure by law enforcement officers.
  • The seized narcotics belonged to someone else—perhaps a friend or roommate.
  • The material you were found to possess was bunk and not, according to the crime lab analysis, a controlled dangerous substance. .
  • The drugs have been lost or destroyed (i.e. the police misplaced them).

 

Trustworthy Drug Crime Attorney

David E. Stanley devotes time and effort to developing the most comprehensive defenses possible for the benefit of its clients. Mr. Stanley has handled drug cases and can provide the attention, direction, and assistance you need to navigate this stressful procedure. If you need a trustworthy drug crime lawyer, contact David E. Stanley, APLC. 

Call David E. Stanley, APLC, at (225) 926-0200 Today

David E. Stanley, APLC
1055 Laurel Street, Suite 2
Baton Rouge, LA 70802
225-926-0200

 

Second Degree Murder | David E. Stanley, APLC - Criminal Defense Attorney, Baton Rouge

What You Need to Know About Second Degree Murder in Louisiana

Second Degree Murder

In Louisiana, second degree murder is defined in La. R.S. 14:30.1 as the killing of a human being when (1) the offender has a specific intent to kill or to inflict great bodily harm; or (2) when the offender is engaged in the perpetration or attempted perpetration of specifically certain felony crimes including, but not limited to, first or second degree rape, aggravated arson, aggravated or second degree kidnapping, assault by drive-by shooting, armed robbery, first degree robbery, second degree robbery, simple robbery, terrorism, and other offenses listed in the statute, even though he has no intent to kill or to inflict great bodily harm; or (3) when the offender unlawfully distributes or dispenses a controlled dangerous substance listed in Schedules I through V of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law, or any combination thereof, which is the direct cause of the death of the recipient who ingested or consumed the controlled dangerous substance; or (4) when the offender unlawfully distributes or dispenses a controlled dangerous substance listed in Schedules I through V of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law, or any combination thereof, to another who subsequently distributes or dispenses such controlled dangerous substance which is the direct cause of the death of the person who ingested or consumed the controlled dangerous substance.

Suppose you or someone you love is facing a charge of second degree murder. In that case, you should immediately contact David E. Stanley, APLC, a highly skilled, knowledgeable, and experienced criminal defense attorney.

Are you seeking a Second Degree Murder
Defense Attorney in Baton Rouge, LA?

Contact David E Stanley, APLC, at (225) 926-0200 Today

What You Need to Know About
Second Degree Murder in Louisiana

What Are Some of the Second Degree Murder Scenarios in Louisiana?

second degree murder

Second degree murder can occur in several different and distinct ways. Some of which require the killing of a human being when the offender has a specific intent to kill, or to inflict great bodily harm, on the victim.  An example might be when two people get in a fist fight outside of a bar, and one of them attempts to stop fighting, and withdraw from the fight, but the other person goes to his car, pulls out a firearm, and shoots the other unarmed person involved in the fight 

Second degree murder can also occur when the offender is engaged in the commission, or attempted commission of another serious felony crimes such as first or second degree rape, aggravated or second degree kidnaping, aggravated burglary, or armed robbery, even though the offender has no intent to kill or to inflict great bodily harm on the victim.  So, for example, if the offender breaks into someone’s home with the intent to commit a felony or theft, while armed with with a dangerous weapon, and a person inside of the home is killed, even though the offender has no intent to kill or to inflict great bodily harm on that person, the offender may be charged with second degree murder. As another example, if the offender distributes or dispenses fentanyl or heroin to another person, who then ingests or consumes that drug, and the ingestion or consumption of the drug is the direct cause of that person’s  death, then the offender may be charged with second degree murder. 

Regardless of the factual circumstances that result in a charge of second degree murder, there is essentially only one statutory penalty, and it is life imprisonment at hard labor without benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence.

What Are the Possible Penalties for Second Degree Murder in Louisiana?

second degree murder

Someone facing a grand jury indictment for second degree murder in Louisiana should immediately contact and retain David E. Stanley, APLC. He is a highly skilled, knowledgeable, and experienced criminal defense attorney with his office located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

  • How Many Years Do You Get for Second Degree Murder in Louisiana?

For a person found guilty of second degree murder, there is only one penalty, which is life imprisonment at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. With a possible exception for an offender who is under eighteen years of age when the crime is committed, parole, probation, or sentence suspension is not available to the offender.

  • Can Minors Be Charged with Second Degree Murder in Louisiana? 

Children who have not reached ten years of age are exempt from criminal responsibility but they are subject to the jurisdiction of juvenile courts as established by the Louisiana constitution and statutes.  But yes, minors can be charged with second degree murder in Louisiana if they meet the criteria for the offense.  For certain serious felony crimes, there are statutes that may allow juveniles that are 14 years of age or older, or 15 years of age or older, to be transferred from the juvenile courts and prosecuted as an adult in state district court subject to statutorily modified penalty provisions. 

  • Can Someone Be Convicted of Second Degree Murder Even Without the Victim’s Body Being Located in Louisiana?

Yes, it is possible to secure a conviction for second degree murder in Louisiana, even without the victim’s body. Still, the prosecution must present solid circumstantial evidence and demonstrate that the person is deceased.

  • Can a Second Degree Murder Conviction Be Appealed in Louisiana?

Yes, a person convicted of second degree murder in Louisiana has the right to a direct appeal of their conviction and sentence to the state appellate courts, the right to file a discretionary petition for a writ of certiorari to the Louisiana Supreme Court,   and conceivably to the United States Supreme Court if the case raises issues of federal constitutional law. 

Experienced and Aggressive Second Degree Murder Defense Attorney in Baton Rouge, LA

If you or your loved one has been charged with second degree murder, you know that the situation is serious and how much is at stake. The decisions that you make right now about who to hire as your attorney, and how to defend yourself, are critical. These decisions may change the outcome of the case and determine what the future will be like for you or your loved one.  The skill, knowledge, and experience of the defense lawyer you choose can make all the difference in your case.  You need to get David E. Stanley, APLC, started working on preparing your defense today. Contact him now to schedule a consultation for a defense strategy session on your second degree murder case.

Call David E. Stanley, APLC Now at (225) 926-0200

 

David E. Stanley, APLC
1055 Laurel Street, Suite 2
Baton Rouge, LA 70802
(225) 926-0200