Criminal Defense: Helpful Information

Welcome to our Criminal Defense Information Center. Whether you are facing criminal charges, know someone who has been arrested or simply want to learn more about criminal charges throughout the United States, the information on this website is meant to help you. Although specific information about criminal offenses will vary depending upon the state in which you reside, you can use the information here as a general guide to learn more about criminal law as a whole. You can also use our directory to find a local lawyer to assist you with your case.

We have highlighted some of the key topics covered in our information center:

Crime Definitions and Information
This section of our website includes a list of common criminal offenses, from A to Z. You can learn more about a particular type of crime so you have a better understanding of what you are up against. Click here to review crime definitions and information...

Guide to Hiring a Lawyer
Finding the right lawyer can be difficult, and when you are dealing with something as important as your freedom, you need to be sure that your choice is right. We have included helpful tips to find and compare local lawyers in order to find one you feel is best qualified to handle your case. Read more about hiring a lawyer...

Your Rights
No matter what crime you may have been accused of committing, you have legal rights. The full protection of your constitutional rights is one of the most important aspects of the legal counsel that a criminal defense lawyer will provide to you. Read more about your rights...

Felony vs. Misdemeanor
All crimes may vary in severity. Depending on the extent of penalties that may be imposed upon a conviction, a crime may be classified as a felony or a misdemeanor. You can learn about the differences between these and the potential penalties a defendant may face. Read more about felonies and misdemeanors...

Stages of a Criminal Case
A defendant will face a number of different stages of a criminal case, from the initial arrest through to the trial, verdict and appeal. The process will vary depending on the severity of charges and whether they are filed in state, federal or juvenile court. Read more about the stages of a criminal case...

Types of Crimes
There are many different types of crimes. For example, some are of a sexual nature. These are referred to a sex crimes. Some are violent, resulting in injury or threatened injury. These are called violent crimes. Still others involve stealing or deception, which are referred to as theft crimes. Read more about the types of crimes...

Juvenile Offenses
When a minor is accused of committing a crime, he or she will typically face proceedings in juvenile court. These are different than legal proceedings for adult defendants, with penalties generally geared toward rehabilitation as opposed to strict punishment. Read more about juvenile offenses...

Traffic Offenses
Though some people may think of traffic offenses as mere speeding tickets, some violations are actually criminal offenses, and a driver may face time in jail, driver's license suspension, heavy fines and other serious penalties. Read more about traffic offenses...

DUI / DWI
Driving a motor vehicle while with an unlawful blood alcohol concentration or abilities that are impaired by alcohol or drugs is a crime that may be referred to as DUI (driving under the influence), DWI (driving while intoxicated/impaired), OUI (operating under the influence) - depending on the state where the alleged offense occurred. Read more about DUI / DWI...

Expungement (Clear Your Criminal Record)
Depending on where you live, you may have different options to clear your criminal record. Considering the fact that a conviction or even an arrest on your record may affect employment opportunities, your ability to obtain a professional license and your reputation as a whole, this may be an important issue to consider. Read more about expungement...

State Bar Associations
It is helpful to visit your State Bar Association online. You can conduct a search for a specific lawyer and can find useful information. We have included a list of links to each of their websites. Visit our State Bar Association page.

To find a criminal defense attorney in your area, click here.