Being charged with a crime in Louisiana is a big deal. Understanding what happens when criminal charges get dropped in Louisiana can help you be prepared for the realities of the criminal justice system and all the possible outcomes of your case. If you’re facing criminal charges in Louisiana, it is crucial to hire a Louisiana criminal defense lawyer to explain how the laws apply to the specific facts of your case.
Many people assume that getting charges dropped in Louisiana is the end of the legal process. However, in many cases, charges may still show on a background check and can impact your ability to obtain a job, a home, or other essential benefits.
Crime in Louisiana
Louisiana ranks in the 25th percentile for safety, which means it’s considered less safe than 75 percent of other states. When looking at overall crime rates, it’s important to consider all the different types of crime included in these statistics. Crime is typically broken down into property crimes and violent crimes. Learn more by reaching out to a Louisiana violent crimes lawyer or a property crimes lawyer.
There were 110,473 total offenses reported by Metropolitan Parishes in Louisiana in a single year. This included:
56,734 crimes against property
30,942 crimes against persons
22,797 crimes against society
As of 2024, there were 29,142 people placed in correctional facilities in Louisiana and another 28,499 on parole or probation.
It’s important to understand Louisiana criminal defense laws to help you through your case at the state level. That said, it’s not uncommon for criminal charges to be escalated to the federal level, especially those that cross state lines or occur over the internet. No matter the details of your case, it’s wise to secure legal counsel from a Louisiana criminal defense attorney who has experience forming aggressive criminal defense strategies.
What Happens When Criminal Charges Get Dropped in Louisiana?
When criminal charges are dropped in Louisiana, all legal action pertaining to the case also stops. You don’t have to worry about facing a trial or any penalties for the charge, and you’re free from immediate court obligations pertaining to the case.
There is a difference between charges being dropped and charges being dismissed in Louisiana. Charges can be dropped before they’ve been filed. In most cases, the prosecutor or arresting officer must be the one to drop charges in a case.
Charges can only be dismissed after they’ve been officially filed. If charges are dismissed without prejudice, the prosecutor may be able to refile at a later date. Charges may be dismissed by the prosecution or by a judge, depending on the nature of the case.
Your charges can remain on your record, even if they are dropped. In most cases, you still have to file for an expungement in order to remove the charges from your record. Otherwise, those charges can still show up on background checks. You can typically file for expungement for misdemeanors and non-violent charges in Louisiana.
FAQs
What Are Common Criminal Defense Strategies in Louisiana?
There are many common criminal defense strategies in Louisiana. The right one for your case is going to depend on the nature of your charges and the prosecution’s case against you. Common criminal defense strategies can include alibi, coercion, duress, entrapment, mistaken identity, mistake of fact or law, necessity, insanity, self-defense, or defense of others.
Your Louisiana criminal defense attorney can also investigate the evidence to look for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and their claims against you.
Does a Charge Stay on Your Record if It’s Dismissed After It Has Been Filed in Louisiana?
A charge stays on your record if it’s dismissed after it has been filed in Louisiana. You can apply for an expungement to seal your record, which effectively removes the charge from your public record. Unless you have your record expunged, you can expect an arrest to be revealed every time your criminal history is checked.
You can seek expungement for misdemeanors and non-violent felonies. A knowledgeable Louisiana criminal defense attorney can help you understand your options.
How Can a Louisiana Criminal Defense Attorney Help With My Case?
A Louisiana criminal defense attorney can help with your case in a number of different ways. Your attorney can investigate your case, build a solid defense against your charges, negotiate plea deals in some cases, and represent you in court if needed. When you hire a criminal defense lawyer, you can leave the nuances of your criminal defense strategy to a legal professional and have peace of mind knowing you’re going through the process correctly.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost in Louisiana?
The cost of a criminal defense lawyer in Louisiana is going to depend on the details of your case and the specific firm. You can expect a Louisiana criminal defense attorney to base their prices on the services you need and the time and resources it is going to take to get you through your case. You usually pay a fixed fee, an hourly rate, or a retainer, depending on the fee structure.
Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer to Help With Your Case in Louisiana
Facing any type of criminal charge is a big deal. Navigating criminal defense laws can be complicated, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the law. A seasoned Louisiana criminal defense attorney can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case.
At Stockstill Defense Firm, our trusted legal team has decades of experience handling complex criminal cases throughout the state of Louisiana. We offer personalized legal strategies for a wide range of cases, providing aggressive representation and proven results.
Our team understands how much is at stake in these types of cases, and we’re committed to helping you secure the most positive outcome possible. Using thorough preparation and a strategic courtroom presence, we’re confident we can help you navigate your case. If you’re ready to talk about your situation in more detail, contact us to set up a consultation with a member of our team today.