Nebraska Criminal Defense Lawyer

One mistake or momentary lapse in judgment can be enough to change the course of your life forever. Unfortunately, one bad decision or split-second action can lead to serious legal troubles and life-long consequences. If you are facing criminal allegations and charges, you should contact a Nebraska criminal defense lawyer at Berry Law as soon as possible.

A dedicated criminal defense attorney in Nebraska can help you protect your rights, advocate on your behalf, and work toward a favorable resolution of the charges pending against you. The experienced legal team at Berry Law is ready to investigate the facts surrounding your case, evaluate the evidence against you, and explore the various options that may be available to you under your unique situation.

We are proud to be considered among the top Nebraska law firms and we work hard to maintain that reputation. We have a strong track record of winning high-stakes criminal defense cases and we’re ready to fight for you.

A Brief Explanation of Criminal Charges in Nebraska

Criminal charges can range from low-level misdemeanors at one end of the spectrum that can result in diversion programs, to the most serious felonies which carry the potential of years in prison. The penalties for criminal offenses may include periods of probation, fines, terms of incarceration in local jail or prison, and post-release supervision.

Some crimes also carry the possibility of collateral consequences that can have a significant impact on the lives of convicted criminals and their families. For instance, a DUI conviction is likely to result in the suspension of driving privileges that can lead to job loss, additional expenses, and the inability to care for family members. A felony conviction may prohibit someone from owning or possessing a firearm.

Certain factors can influence the range of penalties available for criminal offenses. For example:

• If minors are involved in the crime,
• If firearms or other dangerous weapons were used, or
• If the accused person has a prior criminal history,

the potential penalties will be more severe. A felony attorney in Nebraska can explain the full range of potential sanctions you may face for specific criminal charges and work with you toward the best outcome possible.

What are the Categories of Offenses Under Nebraska Law?

Nebraska law contains hundreds of criminal offenses, some of which are more common than others. Many crimes fall within specific categories, such as:

• Drug crimes
• Sex crimes
• Theft crimes
• Violent crimes
• White collar crimes

Other common crimes that may fall outside the scope of these major categories include driving under the influence (DUI), criminal mischief, trespass, resisting arrest, criminal nonsupport, perjury, and tampering with physical evidence.

The experienced Nebraska criminal attorneys at Berry Law understand how to gather evidence and apply the relevant law to build a strong defense on behalf of our clients who are facing any of these criminal charges.

What is the Difference Between Misdemeanor and Felony Offenses?

Under Nebraska law, a range of criminal acts can fall within each major category of criminal offenses. Most crimes are charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. Misdemeanors typically are less serious criminal offenses with less severe penalties. The penalties for many misdemeanor offenses do not require a jail sentence, but if they do require imprisonment, the term usually cannot exceed one year in jail.

On the other hand, felony offenses will carry the potential for far more severe sanctions upon a conviction. For example, someone convicted of a serious felony will be facing a period of incarceration for longer than one year and thousands of dollars in fines.

The Nebraska legislature has further subdivided both felony and misdemeanor criminal offenses into multiple classes ranging from most to least severe. For example, a Class I felony conviction can be punishable by a death sentence and a Class IA felony conviction can lead to a life sentence in prison. Whereas a conviction on a Class IV felony may result in a maximum of two years of incarceration or possibly no jail time at all.

Misdemeanor offenses also are divided into various classes according to the severity of the crime and resulting penalties. Class I misdemeanor convictions may result in a maximum one year of incarceration, while a Class W misdemeanor (DUI charge) can result in a minimum seven days and a maximum 60 days of imprisonment for a first conviction.

When You Need a Nebraska Criminal Defense Lawyer, Trust Berry Law

We understand how challenging, confusing, and even terrifying a criminal arrest can be. When law enforcement authorities arrest you and charge you with a crime, you are facing one of the most important and high-stakes battles of your life. It’s crucial to find a qualified criminal defense attorney in Nebraska who can fight for you and help you receive justice under the law.

The skilled defense attorneys at Berry Law have the grit and tenacity to help you fight for what’s right. Contact our exceptional legal team today to schedule a confidential consultation.