Criminal Defense
Have You Been Charged With Or Investigated For A Crime? Seconds matter.
We know that it can be intimidating to be detained by police, arrested, or charged with a crime. The stakes can be high. Your freedom, reputation and entire future may be on the line. At the very earliest opportunity, people detained or charged by police need an experienced defense lawyer to take charge of their case with confidence. Let us help you.
Why Contact A Lawyer As Early As Possible?
People have the right to have their attorney present before and during all questioning by police and other authorities, even during what may be called an “investigation.” People have the right to have an attorney present even if there has been no arrest or detention.
Sometimes police tell people that they don’t need an attorney yet, because no arrest has occurred. It is important to remember that statements a person makes during an investigation, before arrest, can provide the basis for police to obtain a warrant to conduct a search to gather evidence. People should exercise their right to have legal representation during even initial questioning.
Pleading guilty or not guilty: Going to court for your initial appearance.
Q: I have been charged with a crime. My first court appearance is coming up. If I’m guilty of the charge, why would I plead not guilty?
A: The system is not really set up to accept a guilty plea at the initial appearance in most cases. At the initial appearance, the judge opens the court file on you and sets bail to ensure that you show up for all future court appearances. Even if you want to plead guilty, the judge will often refuse to accept a guilty plea and will encourage you to get legal advice from an attorney. Often, even if someone is guilty, an attorney can better present the case to the prosecutor and convince the prosecutor to lower the charge to a lesser charge or to reduce the penalties, including jail time, fines and/or length of probation. That cannot be accomplished at the initial appearance, so you will have to come back for at least one more court appearance. Guilty or innocent, you should immediately contact an experienced attorney who has the respect of the prosecutor.
David Relles Career Summary
RLM partner David Relles began his law career in 1977 as a Wisconsin prosecutor. Since leaving public service in 1979, he has handled numerous defenses of criminal and traffic cases. David’s defense clients have included physicians, psychologists, lawyers, teachers, social workers, business men and women, and men and women, young and old, with varying experience in the criminal justice system. David has successfully defended people accused not only of felonies, but also of misdemeanor, ordinance and probation violations, including battery, disorderly conduct, domestic abuse and drunk driving.
In addition, David has successfully advised people during investigations and before they appear at grand juries and hearings that could lead to criminal charges and penalties. He has also helped to reduce or eliminate charges through his relationships with, and use of, special investigators and forensic experts.
Although David is an expert litigator, he is able to resolve many criminal cases without trial. Many cases are dismissed outright; and, often, penalties can be avoided by negotiations with prosecutors and alternative sentencing.
What You Should Remember Most of All
It doesn’t matter what you are charged with or being investigated for. It doesn’t matter if you believe you are innocent or guilty. RLM will protect you and your rights to the full extent of the law. Just contact us as soon as possible at (608) 257-2243 x226 and exercise your right to remain silent until we arrive. Our goal is absolutely clear in every case: to get the best possible result for our clients, and to protect their rights.
Learn more about defense of charges of operating while intoxicated.
Learn more about defense of juveniles.