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RECENT SUCCESSSeptember 2008: The state charged the client with armed robbery with a handgun. He had a prior felony. The state's original plea offer was a plea to a dangerous armed robbery offense with a presumptive sentence of 10.5 years in prison. The evidence was very strong (client was found with the gun and bag of money in his possession). The defense requested that the handgun be test fired in order to see if it was operational, in an attempt to defeat the dangerous allegation. Once the test was completed, it was discovered that the handgun wouldn't fire. The prosecutor dropped the dangerous firearm allegation and offered a more lenient plea to a basic armed robbery, with a presumptive sentence of 5 years, instead of the 10.5 previously offered. This case demonstrates that although it may be wise to plea bargain certain cases, through proper investigation of all aspects of the case, a better plea deal can be obtained. August 2008: A client was facing 10 years in prison if convicted on a car burglary case because he had two prior felonies. After interviewing the necessary witnesses, the state's main witness turned out to actually be helpful for the defense. Although the prosecutor offered a plea, upon advice of counsel the defense pushed to trial. Two days prior to the scheduled trial date, finally recognizing the weakness of its case, the state dismissed all charges and the client was freed. This case illustrates the importance of conducting interviews, when necessary. Relying upon the police to properly summarize statements from witnesses is not a good idea.
I Will Personally Handle Your Case!
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