We’re Dedicated to Protecting Your Future. Serving Clients Across New Hampshire

Being arrested and charged with a crime may be one of the most difficult moments in your life. The risk of a criminal record, the possibility of incarceration and the impact of the criminal process on you and your family can be profound. A criminal defense lawyer must understand and explain these risks, work toward protecting you from them and do so in a way that respects the impact of the case on you, personally and professionally.

At Shaheen & Gordon, P.A., being our client means having a fierce advocate in your corner. We understand you need a criminal defense attorney in New Hampshire who will clearly communicate your options and come up with proactive solutions to help you mitigate or eliminate your exposure to the criminal accusations you face.

A Personalized, Comprehensive Approach to Criminal Defense

Our New Hampshire criminal defense lawyers defend many clients at a time, but we strive to identify the legal and personal issues in each and every one of our cases individually. We wish to explain the case to our client in clear and straightforward terms. We keep the legal jargon in the courtroom to help you better understand your rights and options, as well as the status of your case.

We proactively work with you to build a comprehensive and creative argument in your defense, with the aim of securing the best possible outcome for your case. We will take time to get to know you as a person and size up the legal and factual issues in your case; this way, we can spot issues pertaining to procedure, evidence, and constitutional concerns that may mitigate the consequences or defeat the charges.

Factual, Legal & Constitutional Issues in Criminal Cases

As Shaheen & Gordon, P.A. mounts a strong defense for you, our lawyers seek to identify fundamental constitutional concerns regarding your case. They then incorporate these issues into negotiations, pretrial motions and trial presentations to strategically position your case to lessen or eliminate your responsibility for the criminal charges levied against you.

Common issues we look for include:

• Miranda Rights
• Search and seizure
• Competency
• Due process
• Mental health matters
• Scientific Testing

Staying on top of concerns related to these issues and blending them into your defense can work to your advantage.

We also pride ourselves on our motion practice, which relies on legal writing and research to litigate crucial issues before your trial. We often find that we can improve our bargaining position before trials by contemplating motions to dismiss cases and suppress evidence that may have been collected by law enforcement in violation of your constitutional rights. In certain matters, we rely on pretrial litigation to narrow the issues in our cases and improve your chances of success during trial.

A Criminal Conviction Can Have Long-Term Ramifications

It is vital to obtain a capable defense team because even one criminal conviction can have long-term, negative consequences. In addition to a potential prison sentence, you may face fines, social stigma, limited job opportunities, and difficulty finding housing, among other common concerns. Depending on the severity of the conviction, you could lose your right to bear arms, vote in elections, or be included in stigmatizing databases.

Many individuals we speak to jump to the conclusion that a judge might dismiss their case when they hear the story. Unfortunately, this is not how the process works. Even if you made a simple mistake, a judge is not likely to simply dismiss your case. This is particularly true when prosecutors seek to make an example of you, a concern in our northern New England communities. You need a team of highly capable attorneys on your side to ensure you receive the strong fighting chance you deserve.

We Defend Against a Variety of Criminal Charges

At Shaheen & Gordon, P.A., we strive to protect the rights of our New Hampshire clients. Don’t leave your future up to chance; work with a skilled criminal defense attorney and our team. We will personalize your defense and pursue that defense with zeal, regardless of whether you face misdemeanor charges, felony accusations, or a traffic violation. No matter the size or scope of your problem, our attorneys focus on lessening a criminal case’s impact on you and your family.

New Hampshire Criminal Law FAQ

Being arrested or charged with a crime is a frightening experience that will undoubtedly come with many questions. Our New Hampshire criminal defense lawyers have compiled some answers to some of the most frequently asked questions to help you understand your situation.

What should I do if I’m arrested or charged with a crime?

If you are arrested, the most important thing you can do is to remain calm and not make any statements to the police until you have spoken with an attorney. The first thing you should do is contact a criminal defense attorney. A lawyer can help guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and work towards the best possible outcome for your case. A criminal defense attorney can also communicate with law enforcement and prosecutors to tend to initial housekeeping matters, troubleshoot bail issues and tend to questions regarding the benefits of potential cooperation.

How much does a criminal defense attorney cost?

The cost of a criminal defense attorney can vary depending on a number of factors, including the complexity of the case, the attorney’s experience, the location of the case, and the number and type of criminal charges you face. It’s important to discuss fees and payment options with your attorney up front to ensure that you are comfortable with the arrangement.

What are my rights if I am stopped by the police?

You have the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and the right to refuse a search of your person or property (in most cases). You do not have to answer any questions without an attorney present, and anything you say can be used against you in court. It’s important to assert your rights respectfully and clearly if you are stopped by the police, as this can help protect you from self-incrimination and other legal issues.

How long will my criminal case take to resolve?

The length of time it takes to resolve a criminal case can vary widely depending on many factors, such as the complexity of the case, the severity of the charges, and the court’s schedule. Some cases may be resolved relatively quickly with a plea bargain or alternative sentencing, while others may take many months or even years to go to trial. Your attorney will be able to provide you with a more accurate estimate of how long your specific case may take based on the specific circumstances of your case.

Will I have to appear in court, or can my attorney represent me?

In most cases, you will be required to appear in court at some point during your criminal case. However, depending on the circumstances of your case and the specific court procedures, your attorney may be able to represent you at certain court hearings or even negotiate a plea deal on your behalf without your physical presence in court. Your attorney will be able to advise you on when you are required to appear in court and when they can represent you instead.

What are my options for plea bargaining or alternative sentencing?

If you are facing criminal charges in New Hampshire, you may have several options for plea bargaining or alternative sentencing, depending on the specific circumstances of your case and the locality of where the alleged events occurred. Some possible options may include pleading guilty to a lesser offense, agreeing to participate in a diversion or treatment program, or negotiating a sentence that includes probation, community service, or house arrest instead of jail time. Your attorney can discuss these options with you and help you decide which may be most appropriate for your case. Ultimately, the decision of whether to accept a plea bargain or pursue alternative sentencing will depend on a variety of factors, including the seriousness of the alleged offense, the strength of the prosecution’s case, the potential consequences of a conviction, and your own personal circumstances and goals.

Can I represent myself in a criminal case?

Technically, yes, you have the right to represent yourself in a criminal case in New Hampshire. However, it is not recommended, as criminal cases can be very complex and the consequences of a conviction can be severe. A criminal defense attorney has the experience and knowledge to navigate the legal system, spot constitutional violations and legal defects, build a strong defense, identify the need for expert and investigative assistance, and negotiate on your behalf. They can also advise you on the potential consequences of various legal strategies and help you make informed decisions about your case. In general, we strongly recommend that you work with an experienced criminal defense attorney if you are facing criminal charges in New Hampshire.