Criminal Law FAQs in Little Rock, AR

Remain silent and ask for an attorney right away. You have a constitutional right to counsel, and anything said to law enforcement before retaining a lawyer may be used against you. Thompson Law Firm, PLLC brings valuable insight into Pulaski County procedures, and an attorney can begin working on your case from the moment you call. Contact Thompson Law Firm, PLLC at 501-503-5095  as soon as possible after an arrest.

At arraignment, formal charges are read and you enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. After charges are filed, the defendant appears in Circuit Court for Plea and Arraignment, which is a pivotal step in the criminal justice process. At this stage, a defendant may plead guilty, plead not guilty, or plead no contest, which means not admitting guilt but accepting conviction. 

After arraignment, an Arkansas criminal case moves into the pretrial and discovery phase. Your attorney gathers facts, explores possible defenses, and prepares your case during discovery, and motions can be made during this phase seeking exclusion of evidence or dismissal of charges. You may also accept a plea bargain if your attorney recommends it; otherwise, your case goes to trial. Attorney Theodis N. Thompson, Jr. at Thompson Law Firm, PLLC handles both state and federal criminal matters for clients throughout Little Rock and Pulaski County.

Yes, the firm handles both state and federal criminal charges. Attorney Theodis N. Thompson, Jr. is licensed to practice law within the State of Arkansas and serves on the Criminal Justice Act (CJA) Panel of Federal Public Defenders. Federal cases differ from state cases because they involve different prosecutors, sentencing guidelines, legal standards, and court procedures. If you are facing a federal indictment or investigation in Little Rock, AR, contact the firm for a confidential consultation at 501-503-5095.

Many Arkansas criminal records may be sealed under the state's expungement law. Under the Comprehensive Criminal Record Sealing Act of 2013, many misdemeanors and specific felonies can be sealed, and most misdemeanor records are eligible to be sealed immediately after the sentence is completed, though some specific offenses require a five-year waiting period. Upon sealing, the petitioner may lawfully respond "not guilty" or "no conviction" on most employment and housing applications. A criminal defense attorney can review your eligibility and guide you through the petition process.

Thompson Law Firm, PLLC handles a broad range of criminal charges in Little Rock, AR. The firm provides dedicated legal representation for felonies, misdemeanors, DWI/DUI, drug charges, violent crimes, and theft. Criminal charges can carry long-lasting, life-altering consequences, and representing yourself or relying on an overworked court-appointed attorney can leave you facing a less-than-desirable outcome. 

The firm offers a confidential consultation so prospective clients can discuss their situation before committing. From family matters to criminal charges, Thompson Law Firm, PLLC in Little Rock, AR, can be reached by calling 501-503-5095. Fee structures for criminal defense cases can vary based on charge severity, case complexity, and the court involved. Contact the firm directly at 501-503-5095 to request a quote tailored to your specific circumstances.

Yes, Thompson Law Firm, PLLC handles family law matters in addition to criminal defense. Theodis N. Thompson, Jr. is the Principal Attorney of Thompson Law Firm, PLLC, with a focus on criminal defense, family law, personal injury, and probate law. Mr. Thompson is also a qualified Attorney Ad Litem for children in custody cases. Clients navigating both a criminal charge and a family matter can address both needs with a single trusted attorney in Little Rock, AR.

Local knowledge of courts, prosecutors, and procedures can provide a meaningful strategic advantage. Local experience makes a difference, and Thompson Law Firm, PLLC brings valuable insight into Pulaski County procedures and key players, which helps when challenging evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, or seeking reduced charges in Little Rock, AR. Attorney Theodis N. Thompson, Jr. brings local knowledge of Little Rock courts and Pulaski County procedures, fighting tirelessly to protect each client's rights, record, and future.

Yes, the firm represents clients across multiple practice areas beyond criminal defense. Thompson Law Firm, PLLC provides a variety of legal services, ranging from quality representation when facing criminal charges to legal expertise through the Arkansas probate process. Thompson Law Firm, PLLC is a trusted criminal defense lawyer in Little Rock, AR, providing skilled representation in criminal defense, family law, personal injury, and probate estate administration. Visit the About Our Firm page to learn more about all practice areas served.