Kodiak, Alaska Criminal Defense Lawyers

Should I talk to the police if they want to question me?

No. You have an absolute constitutional right to remain silent, and you should use it. Say clearly: "I want a lawyer and I'm exercising my right to remain silent." Police are trained to extract incriminating statements — even innocent people say things that can be used against them. Don't try to explain your side. Don't think you can talk your way out of it. Ask for a lawyer.

Can the police search my phone, car, or home?

Generally, police need a warrant to search your phone and home. Your car has fewer protections — police can search it if they have probable cause. If police ask for your consent to search, you can refuse. If they had a warrant or legal justification, they wouldn't need to ask. Politely say "I do not consent to a search." Evidence from illegal searches can often be thrown out.

What happens after I'm arrested?

You'll be booked (fingerprinted, photographed, background information collected), then typically brought before a judge for a bail hearing. At arraignment, charges are formally read and you enter a plea. If you haven't hired an attorney yet, plead "not guilty" and get a lawyer before your next court date. The process from arrest through trial can take months to over a year.

Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor?

Yes. Don't underestimate misdemeanor charges. The fine isn't the real penalty — it's the permanent criminal record that shows up on every background check for employment, housing, and professional licensing. An experienced attorney can often get charges reduced, dismissed, or diverted to programs that keep convictions off your record entirely.

What's the difference between a public defender and a private attorney?

Public defenders are qualified attorneys, but they're typically assigned far more cases than they can give individual attention. A private attorney generally has more time to investigate your case, communicate with you, and prepare your defense. If you can afford a private attorney, it's usually worth it. If you can't, a public defender is still better than no attorney at all.

What if I know I'm guilty — should I still get a lawyer?

Absolutely. Even if you committed the acts you're accused of, the prosecution may not be able to legally prove its case. Evidence may have been obtained illegally. Witnesses may not be credible. A lawyer can negotiate plea deals that reduce charges or sentencing, get cases diverted to treatment programs, or identify defenses you didn't know existed.

Can criminal charges be dropped or dismissed?

Yes. Charges can be dropped if evidence is insufficient, was obtained illegally, or if witnesses recant or become unavailable. A defense attorney actively works to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case and file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges. Even strong cases sometimes get dismissed on procedural grounds.

Can a criminal record be sealed or expunged?

Many states allow certain criminal records to be sealed or expunged after a period of time, particularly for first-time offenses, misdemeanors, or cases that were dismissed. Eligibility varies significantly by state and offense type. An attorney can evaluate whether you qualify and handle the petition process.