Salt Lake City Criminal Defense Attorneys

Protecting Your Rights and Advocating for Your Interests

Have you been charged with a crime? A criminal conviction can impact every area of your life and put your future and freedom in jeopardy. You need a qualified and experienced defense attorney to ensure that your rights are protected. At Nelson, Taylor & Associates, our Salt Lake City criminal defense attorneys represent clients charged with everything from misdemeanor offenses to serious felonies.

Give us a call today at (801) 901-7046 or contact us online for dedicated legal representation. Your initial consultation is completely free and confidential.

Understanding the Role of a Salt Lake City Criminal Defense Lawyer

A criminal defense lawyer specializes in the defense of people and companies charged with criminal activity. Criminal defense attorneys research the facts, investigate the case against their clients and try to negotiate deals with their adversaries (prosecutors). They also examine witnesses, help formulate a plea, analyze the prosecutor’s case, assess the potential sentences, question witnesses, and gather evidence.

The Importance of Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney

Even a seemingly minor charge can result in a criminal record, which can have a negative impact on your future and your freedom. Our attorneys provide client-focused, results-oriented legal representation aimed at achieving the best result possible for each situation.

We represent clients charged with many different types of misdemeanor and felony offenses, including:

DUI
Drug charges
Domestic violence
Juvenile offenses

A criminal conviction may result in anything from probation to a lengthy prison sentence. Our Salt Lake City criminal defense attorneys use their expansive knowledge of criminal law and the legal system to have charges dismissed, obtain a favorable plea, not guilty verdict, or alternatives to incarceration, depending on the situation. Regardless of the charges or penalties you may be facing, we fight to protect your rights and advocate for your best interests.

Key Types of Criminal Defenses You Should Know

The four categories of criminal defenses the legal system recognizes are:

Justification - a threat to you, your property, or your family, that required you to respond
Excuse - a crime is explained but culpability is not necessarily found in the person who committed the crime
Alibi - proof that you could not have committed a crime because you were not where the crime occurred during the date and time that it happened
Procedural - the actual procedures of the arrest of gathering of evidence are called into question

Identifying Possible Defenses for Your Criminal Charges

If you are facing criminal charges, it is essential to understand the possible defenses that may be available to you. At Nelson, Taylor & Associates, our Salt Lake City criminal defense attorneys are knowledgeable about the different types of criminal charges and defenses. We will work diligently to explore all possible defenses to protect your rights and interests.

Some possible defenses that may be available to you include:

Self-defense: If you were acting in self-defense, you may not be guilty of the crime. Our attorneys will investigate the circumstances surrounding your case to determine if self-defense was a viable defense.
Insanity: If you were not in the right state of mind when you committed the crime, you may be able to use the insanity defense. Our attorneys will work with mental health professionals to evaluate your mental state and determine if this defense is applicable.
Alibi: If you have evidence that proves you were in a different location at the time the crime was committed, you may be able to use the alibi defense. Our attorneys will investigate and gather evidence to prove your alibi.
Entrapment: If the police or law enforcement officials induced you to commit a crime that you would not have otherwise committed, you may be able to use the entrapment defense. Our attorneys will investigate to determine if entrapment is a viable defense.

At Nelson, Taylor & Associates, we understand that every case is unique, and we will work diligently to build a customized defense strategy that is tailored to your specific situation. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced Salt Lake City criminal defense attorneys.

Reach Out to a Salt Lake City Criminal Defense Attorney Before Speaking to Police

In some cases, people may believe they are helping themselves by offering information to law enforcement officers and answering questions. However, it is important to understand that they are attempting to build a case and anything you say may actually harm you in court. For this reason, you should exercise your constitutional right to legal representation and contact an attorney before speaking to police.

Give us a call today at (801) 901-7046 to speak with an experienced criminal defense lawyer about your legal rights and options.

Navigating Criminal Charges in Salt Lake City: Local Insights and Resources

Facing criminal charges in Salt Lake City can be overwhelming, especially with the unique challenges that residents encounter. The Salt Lake City Police Department and the Salt Lake County District Attorney's Office are key players in the local legal landscape, and understanding their processes can be crucial for your defense. Whether you are dealing with a DUI, drug charges, or domestic violence allegations, local laws and regulations can significantly impact your case.

Residents often express concerns about the long-term consequences of a criminal record, which can affect employment opportunities, housing options, and even personal relationships. The stigma associated with criminal charges can be particularly pronounced in close-knit communities like those in Salt Lake City. Our team at Nelson, Taylor & Associates recognizes these pain points and is committed to providing compassionate, knowledgeable support to help you navigate this difficult time.

Additionally, local resources such as the Salt Lake City Public Defender's Office can provide assistance for those who qualify, but many individuals prefer to seek private representation to ensure personalized attention to their case. We understand that each situation is unique, and we are here to help you explore all available options, including potential defenses that may be applicable to your circumstances.

Don’t navigate this challenging time alone. Reach out to us today to discuss your situation and learn how we can assist you in protecting your future.