Criminal Laws - Frequently Asked Questions
Answers from our Boston criminal defense attorneys
Understanding the complexities of Boston criminal law can be overwhelming for any defendant—so John E. DeVito and his staff are here to help you navigate your criminal charges. A Boston criminal defense lawyer, Mr. DeVito has 30 years of experience defending clients against felony and misdemeanor charges.
Some questions we many clients ask include the following:
- What is the difference between a criminal and a civil case?
- Do I need the help of Boston criminal defense lawyers if I am accused of a crime?
- What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?
- What should I do if I am arrested?
- Do all convicted criminals serve time in jail?
- What is the role of the prosecutor?
- What is the difference between probation and parole?
- Will I lose my license if I am convicted of a drug offense?
Contact John E. DeVito, Esq. today
If you face criminal charges, you need qualified Boston criminal law attorneys working on your behalf. Contact the law office of John E. DeVito, Esq. at (877) 637-0501 immediately for assistance.
What is the difference between a criminal and a civil case?
In a criminal action, there is an alleged violation of a state or federal law. In criminal cases, the state or federal government prosecutes individuals or business entities. Civil cases are lawsuits between and among private individuals and business entities.
Do I need the help of Boston criminal defense lawyers if I am accused of a crime?
If you face criminal charges, it is in your best interest to consult a criminal defense lawyer as quickly as possible. An attorney will help defend your legal and constitutional rights and will monitor the legality and fairness of your court proceedings. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible to receive free legal counsel.
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?
Felonies receive more serious punishments than misdemeanors. A felony is a crime that is punishable by a State Prison sentence up to life imprisonment. A misdemeanor is punishable by imprisonment in a Jail or House of Correction up to 2.5 years.
What should I do if I am arrested?
If the police arrest you, ask to call an attorney. Even if you are innocent, do not speak to the police without a criminal defense attorney present.
Do all convicted criminals serve time in jail?
Whether imprisonment is part of the sentence for a criminal offense depends on many factors, including the particular circumstances of the crime and the jurisdiction. A lawyer can negotiate lesser charges or alternative sentencing to avoid imprisonment.
What is the role of the prosecutor?
The prosecutor is the attorney who represents the federal, state, or local government in a case against a criminal defendant. The title of the prosecutor varies by jurisdiction, but some common titles include U.S. Attorney, Assistant District Attorney, County Attorney, and City Attorney.
What is the difference between probation and parole?
Probation is a criminal sentence that allows you to stay in your community rather than serve time in prison. You must comply with certain conditions such as reporting to a probation officer, refraining from alcohol and drug use, and refraining from involvement in criminal activity. Parole is the supervised release of a prisoner from incarceration into the community before the end of a sentence. The conditions of parole are similar to those of probation.
Will I lose my license if I am convicted of a drug offense?
In Massachusetts, there is a good chance that you will incur a license suspension for a drug crime, even if the crime is unrelated to the operation of a motor vehicle. License suspensions for drug offense convictions range from one to five years depending upon the nature of the offense.
