Bedford Criminal Defense Lawyers

If you have landed on this page, it’s likely because you or a loved one is facing a criminal charge in Bedford, New Hampshire. We at Tenn and Tenn, PA understand that this can be a very stressful and frightening time. The uncertainty of your future, combined with the fear of legal consequences, can be overwhelming. Our team of Bedford criminal defense attorneys is here to help you navigate this difficult time and work toward the best possible outcome for your case.

Located in Hillsborough County, Bedford lies fully within the Merrimack River Watershed. The highest point in the town is Holbrook Hill, which is situated at 845 feet above sea level and located in the extreme northwest corner of the town.

Residents and visitors can enjoy attractions such as the Pulpit Rock Conservation Area, Wolfe Park, and Pine Island Park. However, sometimes an incident occurs that leads law enforcement to pursue charges against a Bedford resident. If you are facing a criminal charge, we can investigate your situation and help you build a defense. At Tenn And Tenn, P.A., we are dedicated to protecting the rights of our clients at every step of the way.

Criminal charges and convictions can adversely affect many aspects of your life, so it is important to act quickly.

The Types of Criminal Charges You Might Face

In New Hampshire, criminal offenses are classified into three main categories: felonies, misdemeanors, and violations. Understanding the difference between these categories is essential when facing a criminal charge.

Felonies are the most serious crimes and carry the harshest penalties. These are offenses like murder or other crimes that can lead to more than a year of imprisonment. Felonies are further divided into Class A and Class B felonies. Class A felonies are the more severe of the two, with potential penalties of more than seven years in prison. Class B felonies carry penalties of more than one year but no more than seven years of imprisonment.

Misdemeanors are less severe than felonies but are still considered crimes. They are divided into Class A and Class B misdemeanors. A Class A misdemeanor can result in up to one year in jail, while a Class B misdemeanor does not involve jail time, only a fine. If you are charged with a misdemeanor without a specified class, it is generally presumed to be a Class B misdemeanor unless certain elements, like violence, are involved. However, the state can upgrade a Class B misdemeanor to a Class A misdemeanor under certain circumstances.

Violations are the least severe offenses and do not constitute crimes. A violation may result in a fine but will not lead to imprisonment. Even though violations are not crimes, a conviction for a violation can still have consequences, especially if it involves certain legal or civil penalties.

Fighting Criminal Charges in New Hampshire Courts

We handle a variety of misdemeanor and felony cases, including assault, drug possession and alcohol-related offenses, among others. When you are arrested for a crime, you have certain rights. One of these rights involves having your Miranda rights read to you before you are taken into police custody. These warnings include the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney, both of which are important to exercise. Miranda warnings are meant to protect a defendant’s Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination and Sixth Amendment right to be represented by an attorney. If these rights were violated due to a lack of warnings, the statements that a defendant made while in police custody may be excluded as evidence against them. The issue of when “custody” begins is often complex and can be contested. Our criminal defense attorneys can help Bedford residents determine whether this may be a productive strategy in their case.

In all criminal cases, the state has the burden to prove each element of the offense “beyond a reasonable doubt.” This is the highest standard in the legal system, and it may open many possibilities for a strong defense. For example, in a theft case, your attorney might be able to attack the prosecution’s case on the basis that you did not have the intent to steal the item. In an assault case, there might be a valid argument of self-defense if you were responding to someone else’s aggression.

Sometimes a Bedford criminal defense attorney can build a defense on procedural as well as substantive grounds. The Constitution provides rights to citizens under the Fourth Amendment that protect them from certain searches and seizures. If the police violated those rights in a marijuana possession case, for example, you might be able to have the evidence gained from that unlawful search excluded. The prosecution then might not be able to establish the charge beyond a reasonable doubt.

Different crimes have different consequences, depending on the nature of the crime as well as the crime’s classification. Under the New Hampshire Criminal Code, an offense is charged as a misdemeanor, felony, or violation. Misdemeanors and felonies are considered crimes, whereas violations are not. Felony crimes are the most serious and result in a minimum of one year of jail time. Felonies are categorized as Class A or Class B, the former being the most serious type of criminal offense.

Misdemeanors are not as serious as felonies. These offenses carry a maximum penalty of one year of jail time. Still, misdemeanors can have serious consequences for a person’s life. As with felonies, a person can be charged with a Class A Misdemeanor or a Class B Misdemeanor, the former being more serious.

A violation is an offense but not a crime. The penalties for a violation may include a monetary fine and, in some cases, a license suspension, but there will be no jail time.

How We Can Help You Navigate the Legal System

If you are arrested and charged with a crime in Bedford, the criminal justice system can seem like a confusing maze. From understanding the charges against you to navigating court procedures, the process can be daunting without proper legal guidance. This is where the Bedford criminal defense attorneys at Tenn and Tenn, PA come in.

Our team has a deep understanding of New Hampshire’s criminal statutes and court procedures. We will review the details of your case, explain your legal options, and develop a strategy aimed at achieving the best possible outcome. Whether you are facing a felony, misdemeanor, or violation, our goal is to minimize the impact of the charges on your life.

Choosing the Right Bedford, NH Criminal Defense Lawyers

When facing criminal charges, choosing the right legal team can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. At Tenn and Tenn, PA, we understand the gravity of criminal convictions and the impact they can have on your life. A conviction could lead to fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record, affecting your future opportunities and personal freedom.

Defense Strategies We Use

At Tenn and Tenn, PA, we utilize a range of defense strategies to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome. One strategy involves challenging the evidence presented by the prosecution. We meticulously review all evidence to identify any flaws or issues with its reliability or relevance. If the evidence is insufficient or improperly obtained, we will work to discredit it in court.

Another critical defense strategy focuses on violations of your constitutional rights. If any of your rights were violated during your arrest, search, or seizure, we will strive to have any illegally obtained evidence excluded from the trial. This ensures that only lawful evidence is used against you.

Self-defense or defense of others is also a crucial aspect of our defense approach. If your actions were taken to protect yourself or someone else, we will present compelling evidence and arguments to support this claim. This can be a vital component in establishing your innocence.

Mistaken identity is another factor we thoroughly investigate. If there is a possibility that you were wrongly identified, we will work to present evidence that establishes reasonable doubt. This can be pivotal in disproving the charges against you.

Additionally, we examine procedural errors that may have occurred during the investigation or prosecution of your case. Ensuring that law enforcement and legal procedures were properly followed is essential in maintaining the integrity of your defense.

Mistakes to Avoid After a Criminal Arrest in Bedford, NH

If you have been arrested for a crime in Bedford, NH, it is crucial to understand the steps you need to take to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome. Making mistakes during this critical time can have serious consequences for your case.

Do Not Speak Without Legal Counsel

One of the biggest mistakes people make after an arrest is talking to the police without a lawyer present. It is important to remember that anything you say can be used against you in court. You might think that providing information will help your case, but without legal guidance, you could unintentionally say something that harms your defense. Always wait for a Bedford criminal defense lawyer from Tenn and Tenn, PA before discussing your case with law enforcement or anyone else.

Avoid Trying to Handle Your Case Alone

Another common mistake is trying to handle your case on your own. The legal system can be complex and confusing, especially if you are unfamiliar with how it works. Navigating through the legal processes, filing paperwork correctly, and meeting deadlines are all crucial aspects of your defense. Tenn and Tenn, PA is here to help you understand the legal procedures and provide the necessary support to build a strong defense.

Do Not Ignore Court Dates

Failing to attend court dates is a serious mistake that can lead to additional legal problems. Missing a court appearance can result in arrest warrants and further legal complications. It is vital to keep track of all court dates and ensure you are present for every scheduled appearance. Your Bedford criminal defense attorneys at Tenn and Tenn, PA will help you manage your court schedule and ensure you do not miss any important dates.

Refrain from Discussing Your Case Publicly

Sharing details about your case on social media or with friends can also be detrimental. Publicly discussing your case may lead to misunderstandings and could be used against you in court. It is best to keep your case confidential and only discuss it with your attorney. Tenn and Tenn, PA will provide you with confidential legal advice and help you maintain the privacy of your case.

Bedford Criminal Defense Client Story

This client story is for educational purposes only.

In a small town like Bedford, New Hampshire, everyone knew Gary as the friendly guy who would always lend a hand. But one fateful night, Gary found himself in a tough spot. He was accused of a crime he didn’t commit, and the weight of those charges was crushing.

Gary’s world turned upside down when the police showed up at his door. He felt scared and overwhelmed, unsure of what to do next. The fear of going to court and being wrongly punished was terrifying. Gary needed help, and fast.

That’s when he turned to John Tenn from Tenn And Tenn, PA. John Tenn was a Bedford criminal defense lawyer with a reputation for standing up for people who found themselves in tough situations. Gary hoped that John could make a difference in his case.

From the very start, John Tenn was a guiding light for Gary. He listened carefully, understood Gary’s side of the story, and promised to fight for the truth. Gary felt a spark of hope for the first time since his arrest. John wasn’t just a lawyer; he was a trusted ally who made Gary believe that justice was possible.

As the days turned into weeks, John Tenn worked tirelessly. He dug deep into the case, finding facts and evidence that would prove Gary’s innocence. John’s dedication was clear as he spent countless hours preparing for court, ensuring every detail was right.

When the day in court arrived, Gary was nervous but felt comforted knowing John was by his side. In the courtroom, John made a powerful case, showing the truth and clearing up the misunderstandings that had led to Gary’s arrest. It was clear that John’s hard work and belief in Gary’s innocence were paying off.

Finally, the moment came when the judge declared Gary not guilty. Tears of relief filled Gary’s eyes as he realized he was free from the wrongful charges. The weight that had been on his shoulders was lifted, and he could finally breathe easy again.

Gary knew he couldn’t have done this alone. John Tenn and the team at Tenn And Tenn, PA had stood by him, fought for him, and made sure the truth came out. For Gary, they weren’t just lawyers—they were heroes who had helped him through one of the darkest times of his life.

Contact Tenn and Tenn, PA for Help with Your Bedford Criminal Case

If you have been arrested for a crime in Bedford, NH, it’s important to get experienced help right away. At Tenn and Tenn, PA, our Bedford Criminal Defense attorneys are here to support you through every step of your case. We understand how stressful this time can be, and we are committed to working hard to achieve the best possible outcome for you.

Our team offers free consultations to help you understand your options and begin building your defense. We believe in giving each case the attention it deserves, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive fair treatment throughout the legal process. If you need dedicated and skilled legal representation, don’t hesitate to reach out to Tenn And Tenn, PA. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step towards resolving your case with confidence.