Many people think they can talk their way out of a difficult situation. That’s the last thing you want to try. The police are experts at getting you to say things that can be held against you later in court. Losing your freedom is a devastating experience.
Andre A. Hakes – Criminal Defense, Sex Crimes & DUI Attorney
Contact us today for an Initial Consultation – It’s the first step to protecting yourself.
[The results obtained under one set of circumstances cannot be a predictor of future results.]
André Hakes thoroughly investigates every charge, keeps you updated on all of your available options and the status of your case, and works toward the best possible outcome. Clients trust her skills and proven record of success when their situation seems hopeless. She aggressively defends clients in a wide range of criminal matters throughout Virginia, including the following types of felonies and misdemeanors:
Do not speak with the police until you have an attorney. Miranda rights don’t apply until you are actually in custody or arrested. To avoid them, the police “ask” you to come down to the station “voluntarily” to “clear things up.”
They put you in a little room with hidden cameras and microphones, where you are being videotaped without you knowing it. They use psychological interrogation techniques to get you to say things that may hurt you later in court. They are allowed to lie to you. You are not allowed to lie to them. How do you protect yourself? Don’t talk. Get a lawyer.
A misdemeanor is a crime punishable by a maximum of 12 months in jail. Felonies are more serious crimes for which the maximum penalty exceeds 12 months, and for which time is usually served in a prison system, rather than the local jail. Behaviors punishable only by fine, such as traffic tickets, are sometimes not considered crimes at all, but “infractions”.
Absolutely. Representation at an early stage in a case can sometimes prevent charges from being filed. Also, having had an attorney early, during the pre-charging investigation, can greatly increase your chances of winning in court if you are charged later.
We handle cases on a flat fee or hourly basis. We will often be able to talk to you on the phone and quote you a flat fee for misdemeanors and pre-charging felonies. In some charged felony cases, we can quote a fee over the phone. In others, we may need to meet with you or your family and gather further information.
We do consultations at an hourly rate. At the end of the consultation, we can determine the appropriate fee structure for your case, and you can evaluate our services and decide if you want to hire us to defend your case. We accept all major credit cards to assist with payment.
Your Next Step:
Contact us today – We’re ready to help.
We have four offices conveniently located in Charlottesville, Palmyra (Across from Food Lion), Harrisonburg, and Staunton, Virginia.