Criminal Law FAQs

A Connecticut criminal defense lawyer represents individuals charged with crimes in Connecticut courts, protects their constitutional rights, and works to resolve cases through dismissal, reduction, negotiation, or trial. You should contact a lawyer as soon as you are arrested, receive a summons, or believe you are under investigation.

In Connecticut, misdemeanors are less serious offenses and are classified as Class A, B, or C misdemeanors, typically punishable by up to one year in jail and fines. Felonies are more serious crimes, classified from Class E up to Class A felonies, and can carry significant prison sentences and long-term consequences. The classification depends on the specific charge.

The process usually begins with an arrest or issuance of a summons. After arraignment in Superior Court, the judge addresses bond and conditions of release. The case then proceeds through pretrial hearings, evidence review, and negotiations with the prosecutor. The vast majority of cases resolve before trial, but if necessary, the case may proceed to a jury or bench trial.

No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to speak with an attorney before answering questions. Anything you say to law enforcement can be used against you. It is often best to respectfully decline to answer questions and request a lawyer as soon as possible.

After an arrest, you have the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and the right to be informed of the charges against you. You also have the right to reasonable bond and to be brought before a judge for arraignment. A defense attorney helps ensure these rights are fully protected.

Missing a court date can result in a failure to appear charge and the issuance of a rearrest warrant. Violating bond conditions may lead to increased bond, additional charges, or immediate custody. If this occurs, contact your attorney right away to address the issue promptly.

The purpose of bond is to ensure the Defendant attends all court appearances. In Connecticut, judges consider factors such as the nature of the charge, criminal history, flight risk,and risk of failure to appear when setting bond. Bond can be financial or non-financial. In many cases, a defense attorney can request a bond reduction or modification of release conditions.

Connecticut law allows for record erasure in certain situations, including dismissed charges, nolles, and some cases after a waiting period. The Clean Slate law also provides for automatic erasure of eligible convictions after a set time. Eligibility depends on the offense and outcome of the case. Individuals with criminal convictions can apply for a Pardon (expungement) of their criminal record after several years (3 years for misdemeanors, 5 years for felonies).

Plea negotiations in Connecticut involve discussions between your attorney and the prosecutor to potentially reduce charges or penalties. Whether a plea is appropriate depends on the evidence, your goals, and the risks of trial. A defense lawyer helps you evaluate all options before making a decision.

State charges involve violations of Connecticut law and are handled in Connecticut Superior Court. Federal charges involve violations of federal law and are prosecuted in U.S. District Court, often with stricter sentencing guidelines. The procedures and potential penalties can differ significantly.

Criminal charges can affect employment, professional licenses, housing, and immigration status—even without a conviction. Certain Connecticut offenses carry mandatory reporting or collateral consequences. It’s important to discuss these risks with your attorney early in the case.

Early involvement allows your lawyer to protect your rights at arrest and arraignment, influence bond decisions, preserve evidence, and begin negotiations with prosecutors. Acting early often leads to better outcomes and fewer long-term consequences.

Bring any documents related to your case, including arrest paperwork, summonses, bond information, and court notices. Your attorney will instruct you if any specific documents would be helpful.

Your lawyer needs complete and honest information about the incident, your background, and any prior legal matters. Open communication allows your attorney to identify defenses, anticipate challenges, and advocate effectively in Connecticut courts.

I have been practicing criminal defense law for over 10 years. Throughout my career, I have represented individuals facing charges in Connecticut courts and have handled cases at every stage of the criminal process, from arrest through trial.

My practice is devoted exclusively to criminal defense. For the past decade, I have focused solely on defending individuals accused of crimes, allowing me to stay deeply familiar with Connecticut criminal law, court procedures, and local practices.

I have extensive experience handling a wide range of criminal cases, including DUI, drug offenses, assault and violent crimes, theft and fraud charges, domestic violence matters, probation violations, and serious felony cases. My practice covers both misdemeanor and felony defense in Connecticut courts.

Yes. Having practiced exclusively in Connecticut criminal courts for over a decade, I am very familiar with local judges, prosecutors, and courtroom procedures. This experience helps me navigate cases efficiently and tailor defense strategies to the specific court and jurisdiction.

My approach is to be thorough, thoughtful, and strategic from the very beginning. I take the time to understand each client’s situation, explain the process clearly, and review the evidence carefully. While I am always prepared to take a case to trial if necessary, I also look for opportunities to resolve matters early when it can reduce stress, risk, and long-term consequences for the client. The goal is always to pursue the outcome that best protects the client’s future, while keeping them informed and supported at every step.

That decision is based on a careful review of the evidence, the strengths and weaknesses of the case, the potential consequences, and the client’s goals. I explain all available options and provide guidance, but the final decision is always made by the client with a clear understanding of the risks and benefits.

Over the past 10 years, I have achieved many favorable outcomes for clients, including dismissals, reductions, and alternative resolutions. Every case is different, and results depend on the facts and circumstances involved. My focus is always on pursuing the best possible result in each individual case.

I believe in clear, straightforward communication. I explain the law and the process in plain language, highlight what matters most at each stage, and make sure clients understand their options before decisions are made. Clients stay informed without being buried in unnecessary legal jargon.

Because my practice is focused entirely on criminal defense, staying current is part of my daily work. I regularly monitor changes in Connecticut criminal law, court rules, and local procedures, and I stay actively engaged in the Connecticut criminal defense community.

In most criminal cases, I charge a flat fee rather than billing by the hour. Flat fees provide clarity and predictability, so clients know what to expect from the outset.

Legal fees generally cover attorney time, court appearances, case preparation, and communication related to your defense. Certain costs—such as court filing fees, expert witnesses, investigators, or specialized testing—are separate and are discussed with clients ahead of time.

I offer an initial consultation to discuss your situation, answer questions, and explain how the process works. During that meeting, we can also talk about potential strategies and fees so you can make an informed decision about moving forward.

I understand that criminal charges often come unexpectedly. In appropriate cases, flexible payment arrangements may be available. Any payment plan is discussed upfront so there are no surprises later.

I make communication a priority. Clients are kept informed about important developments, court dates, and decisions as the case progresses. I also encourage clients to reach out with questions at any time.

Each client is assigned a dedicated case lead who assists with communication, scheduling, and day-to-day support. I remain personally involved in every case, handle all legal strategy, and appear at all court proceedings. This structure ensures clients receive responsive, attentive support while still working directly with me on all legal matters.

I strive to respond to client communications as promptly as possible, typically within one business day. Time-sensitive matters are addressed as quickly as circumstances allow.

Clients receive updates whenever there is meaningful activity in their case, such as court appearances, new evidence, or negotiations. Even when things are quiet, clients are welcome to check in for reassurance or clarification.

Communication can take place by phone, email, or in person, depending on what works best for the client and the situation. I aim to be accessible and flexible while maintaining clear and effective communication.