Defending Your Rights Against Criminal Charges
If you are under investigation for or accused of a crime, you need a strong advocate on your side. The state will not look out for your best interests. Our attorneys will.
With years of experience on both sides of the criminal justice system, the Aldridge & Birdwhistell Law Firm, PSC, understands how the state prosecutes criminal cases. We also know how to counter the state’s actions to protect your reputation and your freedom.
Types Of Cases That We Handle
When we represent you, we will anticipate the prosecution’s handling of the case and develop sound legal strategies to protect your rights. Our lawyers can advise you on the potential risks, challenges and potential outcomes.
- Drug crimes: Drug crimes, including possession, trafficking and manufacture are taken seriously in Kentucky. Under state law, the severity of fines and prison sentences vary depending on the type and amount of substance involved. Fines can be steep, and prison sentences can range up to life in prison.
- Driving under the influence (DUI): License suspension or revocation, fines, community service, jail, ignition interlock devices and mandatory substance or alcohol abuse programs can change the nature of your life. Because DUI laws are complex, it can be a mistake to try to represent yourself.
- Arson: Arson is a serious felony with severe punishments for convictions. If you have been charged with arson, obtain legal counsel as soon as possible.
- Theft and shoplifting: We have vast knowledge and experience defending clients against charges that involve stealing or otherwise misappropriating someone else’s property such as shoplifting, theft, larceny, extortion, burglary and robbery.
Severity Of Felony Level Charges
Nobody would want to have a felony conviction on their record. If you are convicted, you face more than a lengthy prison sentence. You also face the lifelong stigma of being a convicted felon.
Examples of felonies in Kentucky include:
- Class A felonies – Includes burglary, drug crimes and robbery. Punishment could bring between 20 years to life imprisonment.
- Class B felonies – Includes assault (in the first degree), drug crimes, manslaughter (in the first degree) and theft. Punishment could bring 10 to 20 years in prison.
- Class C felonies – Includes assault (in the second degree), DUI, manslaughter (in the second degree) and white collar crimes. Punishment could bring a five- to 10-year sentence in prison.
- Class D felonies – Includes assault (in the third degree), reckless homicide and felonious driving. Punishment could bring one to five years in prison.
We will thoroughly review the state’s evidence and prepare the strongest possible defense. We will take the time to explain your rights and answer all your questions, because we know what’s at stake.
Answers To Common Criminal Law Questions
At Aldridge & Birdwhistell Law Firm, PSC, we get many questions about criminal law and the criminal justice system. Here are some answers to the common ones. If you have more specific questions, please call our office to arrange a free confidential consultation with our criminal defense attorneys.
What is a plea deal?
A very large portion of criminal cases in Kentucky are settled through a plea deal rather than through a jury trial. Prosecutors in the state attorney’s office are generally willing to accept plea deals because it saves the state the expenses involved in litigating a case.
The value of our skilled lawyers is that they have experience negotiating with prosecutors throughout Kentucky and know how to get the best deal you can get. If you face multiple charges, then we may be able to get the prosecutor to drop some of the charges. Or if it is only one violation you are charged with, then we may be able to help you plead to a lesser offense with less severe consequences.
I am innocent, do I need a lawyer?
Yes. Criminal convictions have serious consequences. If found guilty, you could pay a severe fine and potentially spend time in prison or jail. It is a risk you should not take.
What controlled substance cases have you handled?
Meth is relatively prevalent in Kentucky, and hence we have much experience defending against charges of methamphetamine production and possession. We also frequently handle cultivation of marijuana and possession of cannabis.
We also provide strong and effective defense against charges related to cocaine, heroin, opiates, LSD, ecstasy, steroids and other controlled substances.
The Strong, Effective Defense You Need
At Aldridge & Birdwhistell Law Firm, PSC, we will provide a strong, sophisticated defense for most types of felony and misdemeanor charges. Send us an email or call 270-872-0912 in Elizabethtown or 502-907-2899 in Louisville to arrange a free confidential consultation.