Talented Memphis, Tennessee criminal defense attorney Mark S. McDaniel has defended clients from a wide range of criminal charges, from drunk driving and traffic tickets to more serious crimes such as sex- or drug-related felonies.
What Constitutes a Crime?
A crime is legally defined as wrongful conduct punishable by imprisonment, a fine, or other penalty. Felonies refer to more serious crimes, generally those that involve physical force (such as homicide, kidnapping, and robbery) which may be punished by over a year of imprisonment, or even death.
Misdemeanors are less serious offenses that are punished by a fine, penalty, forfeiture, or imprisonment of a year or less. Depending on a state’s laws, misdemeanors may include trespassing, minor thefts, or first-time drug possession.
Our Law Firm can assist with any Criminal Defense
Mark S. McDaniel provides professional and diligent legal representation to criminal defendants in Memphis, TN. We have defended the rights and liberty of clients in a variety of felony and misdemeanor cases, ranging from complex white-collar and violent crimes to more simple matters involving drug possession and petty theft.
Your Rights in Criminal Defense Cases
Both federal and Tennessee constitutions provide important safeguards to protect citizens against intrusive law enforcement practices. The Fourth Amendment to the US Constitution protects against unreasonable police searches and seizures. A person cannot be arrested and taken into custody unless the officer has a warrant or probable cause to believe that the person has committed or is committing a crime. The “probable cause” standard requires the police officer to be able to articulate facts that would cause a reasonable person to believe that the suspect has committed or is committing a crime. If you are detained or arrested by law enforcement authorities, politely assert your right to consult with an attorney before questioning. Important legal rights may be lost or waived if you fail to request an attorney at the earliest point of the criminal process.
If you or someone you know have been accused of a crime, regardless of severity, please contact the Memphis, TN law firm of Mark S. McDaniel at 877-242-1681 for professional, confidential advice and counsel regarding your criminal defense rights and options. Alternatively, submit contact us by submitting our web form.