Criminal Defense Attorney in Union, MO
You were arrested, or a summons showed up in the mail. There's a court date on it. Maybe there are bond conditions too, and you're not sure what any of it means for you. Schmanke Law Firm defends people in Union and the surrounding area charged with misdemeanors, felonies, DWI, and traffic offenses, and handles bond and probation matters. The office is in Union, home of the Franklin County courthouse.
The First Few Days Matter
What you say to law enforcement, what you sign, and what you assume about your charge can all shape how the case unfolds. If you've got a citation, a summons, or bond paperwork sitting in front of you and you're not sure what it means, that's the point to get advice, not after your next court date.
You're allowed to have an attorney present before answering questions from police, whether or not you've been arrested yet.
Criminal Cases We Handle
Misdemeanors carry lighter penalties than felonies, but a conviction can still follow you on a background check.
Felony charges are the more serious end of Missouri's criminal code, with more at stake in how the case is handled.
DWI cases move on their own timeline, often starting with a licensing issue before the criminal case even gets to court.
Some traffic tickets are simple fines. Others are criminal charges wearing a traffic ticket's clothing, and it's not always obvious which one you've got.
We also handle bond matters and cases where a new charge comes up during an existing probation.
Misdemeanor or Felony?
Missouri divides criminal charges into misdemeanors and felonies, and felonies are the more serious category. Beyond that basic split, what you're actually charged with determines a lot, and it's worth confirming rather than assuming based on how the arresting officer described it.
Already Have a Court Date?
Contact the office and bring what you have including the citation, summons, charging document, or bond paperwork. A date on the calendar isn't the end of your options, it's the point where using the time in front of you actually helps.
Questions About Criminal Charges in Missouri
Do I need an attorney for a misdemeanor?
Not in every case, but a misdemeanor conviction still shows up on background checks and can affect employment. Worth a conversation before deciding how to handle it.
Should I talk to law enforcement if I'm accused of a crime?
You have the right to an attorney present before answering questions, even before you've been formally charged.
What should I bring to a first meeting?
Whatever paperwork you've received: citation, summons, charging document, bond paperwork, and your court date if you have one.
What happens if I'm charged while I'm on probation?
A new charge while on probation can affect both matters at once, which is why it's worth getting advice quickly.
Can a criminal charge stay on my record?
Depending on the charge and outcome, it can. Worth discussing directly since it depends on your case.
If you've been charged with a crime, call to understand your options before deciding anything on your own.