Criminal Defense Attorneys In Des Moines
Last updated on May 8, 2025
If you are facing criminal charges, then it is essential to learn about your legal options. At Spellman Law, P.C., our attorneys can help you strategize a defense and fight charges for any kind of offense. We have been helping people in Des Moines and throughout Iowa communities for over 30 years.
What Can You Do If Confronted By Law Enforcement?
If you are approached by law enforcement representing the West Des Moines Police Department, Des Moines Police Department, Polk County Sheriff’s Office or other local law enforcement agencies, then you should know your rights. You have the right to the following:
- The right to remain silent
- The right against unreasonable searches
- The right to record the police
- The right to legal counsel if arrested
You can learn more by talking to one of our attorneys.
Where Are People Held After An Arrest In Iowa?
If someone is arrested in Iowa, they should be taken into custody at the local police department. If arrested in West Des Moines, for example, the defendant should expect to be taken to West Des Moines City Jail. Following the arrest, the defendant may be released without charges or after posting bail or held in jail. Our attorneys at Spellman Law, P.C., can help families locate their loved ones if they are arrested.
Is It Possible To Get Criminal Charges Dismissed?
Having criminal charges dismissed is an outcome many defendants hope for, but whether it is possible depends on several factors.
The severity of the alleged crime can play a pivotal role, as does the strength and admissibility of the evidence presented against you. In minor offenses or cases with questionable evidence, dismissal is typically far more likely. By contrast, achieving dismissal requires a robust legal strategy when facing serious charges.
There are also procedural and technical aspects that can lead to dismissal. For example, if the police violated your rights through an illegal search or improper protocols, a skilled attorney can raise a challenge on constitutional grounds. Additionally, errors in the arrest process or insufficient evidence presented by the prosecution can all serve as possible grounds for dismissal.
Each situation is unique, and pursuing dismissal requires a thorough understanding of the legal and procedural nuances. An experienced criminal defense attorney can guide you in exploring the possibilities for dismissal.
How Does Plea Bargaining Work In A Criminal Defense Case?
Plea bargaining is a legal negotiation process in which the defendant and the prosecution agree on a resolution without proceeding to a full trial. The process typically involves pleading guilty to a lesser charge or receiving a reduced sentence in exchange for waiving the right to a trial.
Discussions about plea bargains most often occur during the pretrial phase, though they may arise at any point before a verdict is reached. Plea deals can be beneficial in cases where the evidence heavily favors the prosecution, allowing the defendant to avoid the risk of harsher penalties.
However, not all plea deals serve the defendant’s best interests. It is crucial to understand the long-term consequences of the agreement, such as how it might impact your criminal record or future opportunities.
A seasoned defense attorney plays a critical role in plea negotiations, helping evaluate the fairness of the offer and determining whether accepting it aligns with your best interests. Our team has extensive experience guiding defendants through plea bargain talks.
Defense Against All Misdemeanor And Felony Charges
At Spellman Law, P.C., our lawyers are experienced in handling all misdemeanor crimes and felony crimes.
We have the knowledge and skill to handle state and federal criminal charges.
We can defend our clients from the following offenses:
- Drug crimes
- Drunk driving charges
- Financial crimes
- Firearms offenses
- Internet crimes
- Sex crimes
- Assault and battery crimes
- Theft crimes
We also handle all related matters, including bonds and detention hearings, as well as post-conviction issues such as probation violations and expungements.
There is no crime too great for our lawyers to defend. We can help lower the penalties for a criminal conviction and sometimes even have a case dismissed altogether with the right evidence and defense strategy.
Talk To An Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
Do not dismiss the importance of experienced legal representation. You can reach out to our firm, Spellman Law, P.C., to schedule a free consultation and talk with one of our lawyers about your case. Call our office at 515-222-4330 or email us using our online contact form.