Top Criminal Defense Attorney in Hartford, CT

Experienced Hartford Criminal Defense Lawyers Ready to Defend You

Being charged with a crime is scary, and for good reasons, whether or not it is your first time. A conviction for a first offense can lead to time in jail or prison, large fines and fees, and a variety of other consequences.

Potential punishment only gets worse for subsequent offenses, which is why it is vital you have a strong legal advocate on your side to fight for your rights, freedom, and future. We have the knowledge and experience to build a strong criminal defense in your favor. Remember, it is never in your best interest to represent yourself or speak to police before you have a criminal defense lawyer on your side. Budlong & Scelfo, LLC can help.

Act Quickly: Contact a Defense Attorney in Hartford

It would be ideal to have a criminal defense lawyer present with you from the moment you were placed in the back of a cop vehicle. That, however, is not practical. You should, however, make the effort to speak to a defense lawyer as soon as possible, ideally after you are released from custody.

Understanding the Role of Your Hartford Defense Lawyer

A defense attorney, also known as a criminal defense lawyer, is a legal professional who represents individuals or entities (such as corporations) that have been accused of committing a crime.

The primary role of a defense attorney is to provide legal counsel and representation to their clients throughout the criminal justice process. Here are some key responsibilities and actions that a defense attorney typically performs:

• Client consultation: The attorney meets with the client to discuss the details of the case, gather information, and understand the client's perspective and goals.
• Case assessment: The attorney reviews the evidence against the client, including police reports, witness statements, and any other relevant documents or information. They analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the case to develop a defense strategy.
• Legal research: The attorney conducts legal research to understand the relevant laws, precedents, and court procedures that apply to the case.
• Defense strategy development: Based on their assessment of the case, the attorney develops a defense strategy tailored to the specific circumstances and legal issues involved. This strategy may include challenging the evidence, questioning witnesses, presenting alibis or other defenses, or negotiating with the prosecution for a plea bargain.
• Court representation: The attorney represents their client in court proceedings, including arraignments, bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings. They present arguments, cross-examine witnesses, and advocate for their client's interests.
• Negotiation: The attorney may negotiate with prosecutors to seek a plea bargain or alternative sentencing options that could reduce the charges or penalties faced by their client.
• Client advocacy: Throughout the process, the attorney advocates for their client's rights and interests, ensuring that they receive fair treatment and due process under the law.
• Post-conviction representation: If their client is convicted, the attorney may continue to represent them during the appeals process or in seeking post-conviction relief, such as a sentence reduction or a new trial.

Overall, the role of a defense attorney is to vigorously defend their clients against criminal charges, protect their legal rights, and seek the best possible outcome in their cases.

Call Budlong & Scelfo, LLC at (800) 496-0497 or contact us online to get your consultation.

Comprehensive Criminal Defense Services in Hartford, CT

At Budlong & Scelfo, LLC, our defense lawyers offer reassurance that your case will be treated with the urgency it deserves after an arrest or charges on suspicion of:

• Assault and battery
• Aggravated assault
• Family violence (domestic violence)
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI)
• Theft
• A drug crime involving marijuana, prescription narcotics, "street drugs," or any other controlled substance

These cases, and more, are taken seriously by courts throughout Connecticut and prosecutors will do all they can to secure a conviction. The criminal law attorneys at Budlong & Scelfo, LLC take a team approach to every criminal case, meeting regularly to explore various strategies and solutions that benefit our clients. We also prioritize communication and hard work to do everything ethically possible to protect our clients in and out of the courtroom.

Client-Centered Criminal Defense in Hartford

Our trial criminal defense lawyers in Hartford are available to evaluate your case and take action right away to give you the greatest chances of a favorable outcome.

This includes seeking the following, when available:

• Dropped charges
• Reduced charges
• Reduced penalties
• No jail time
• Probation instead of a conviction
• Diversionary program alternatives for eligible offenders
• No criminal record

Over 50 Years of Criminal Defense Success in Connecticut

While no defense attorney can promise a particular outcome in any criminal defense case, we can promise hard work and prompt communication, whenever possible. With nearly 50 years in the practice of law in Hartford, Connecticut, we have achieved many successful results in a variety of cases. Our clients' legal opponents, including law enforcement and prosecutors, respect the name Budlong & Scelfo, LLC. Our criminal defense experience can work in your favor.

We welcome the opportunity to advise you and advocate for your rights in any criminal matter in Connecticut.

Secure Your Defense Today: Contact Budlong & Scelfo, LLC

You may be under investigation. You may have been accused but not yet charged with a crime. You may have been arrested. You may have been formally charged with a violent offense, a drug crime, or any other criminal action. Whatever stage your case is at now, please let us know so we can counsel you on the best way forward.

Call Budlong & Scelfo, LLC at (800) 496-0497 or contact us online to schedule your consultation.