Dedicated Criminal Defense Lawyers Protect Your Rights and Freedom in New Orleans
Experienced counsel for misdemeanors, felonies, and federal offenses in Louisiana
Choosing the right lawyer is the single most important decision you can make after being arrested. No matter what crime police accuse you of committing, you must hire a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. At Venezia & Associates (APLC), we have defended Louisianans charged with state and federal crimes as serious as murder for more than 20 years. Further, attorney John A. Venezia has tried over one hundred civil and criminal trials in both state and federal court. Whether you are arrested for drugs, drunk driving, or even homicide, we stand ready to help you build a strong defense.
Felonies vs. misdemeanors
Any criminal charge is a serious matter. Misdemeanor crimes are “lighter” offenses typically punishable by a fine and/or up to a year in jail. Felonies, on the other hand, are serious matters punishable by lengthy imprisonment in a state facility, or the death sentence. Regardless of why the police arrested you, our attorneys can rush to your aid and protect your rights.
Depending on the circumstances of your arrest and the facts of your case, we may be able to have the charges against you dismissed. Or, if you are arrested for a felony, our aggressive trial lawyers may be able to negotiate with prosecutors and have your case reduced to a misdemeanor.
Types of criminal defense cases we handle
We provide experienced defense counsel to clients facing charges for all types of criminal offenses including:
- Drunk driving — A drunk driving charge is serious. Even first-time offenders face strict penalties including up to six months in jail, $1,000 in fines, and a 12-month license suspension.
- Drug possession — The penalty for possessing a controlled substance varies greatly based on the type of drug and the amount. For example, possession of a small amount of marijuana is generally punishable by up to $500 in fines and/or six months in jail, while possession of 28 grams or less of cocaine is generally punishable by up to 5 years in prison and $5,000 in fines.
- Theft — Whether you face misdemeanor or felony theft charges depends greatly on the value of the items you are alleged to have stolen. For example, theft of less than $750 is a penalized by up to six months in jail, while theft of over $25,000 is a felony punishable by up to 20 years in jail.
- Murder — Murder is the most serious type of criminal offense and is punishable by death or life imprisonment at hard labor.
The moment the police become involved in your life, contact a skilled attorney. Our team of aggressive defense lawyers can safeguard your rights, reputation, and freedom.
Defending against federal charges
In addition to representing clients accused of state level offenses, our firm has extensive experience defending Louisianans charged with federal crimes. Whether you are arrested for kidnapping, drug trafficking, white-collar crimes, or any other type of federal offense, you need immediate and competent counsel. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you could face a long prison sentence in a federal prison, not the local parish jail. Drawing on our vast knowledge of the criminal justice system, we can help you develop a solid defense strategy for whatever charges you face.
Let a respected team of Louisiana defense attorneys fight for you
Venezia & Associates (APLC) works tirelessly to defend Louisiana clients arrest for misdemeanors, felonies, and federal offenses. Call (504) 486-3910 or contact us online to schedule a consultation to discuss your case with an experienced criminal law attorney today.