Northern Kentucky Criminal Defense Lawyer
At C. Ed Massey & Associates, PLLC, our lawyers are aggressive trial attorneys with more than 60 years of combined legal experience. When you retain us, your interests become our interests. We will advise you of all the rights and responsibilities you have in light of the criminal charges you are facing.
As a client-centered criminal defense law firm, we keep our clients informed about all of the steps involved in their defense and guide them through the entire process. We emphasize forthright and candid conversations. From our office in Erlanger, we represent clients throughout the surrounding areas of Northern Kentucky, including Covington, Florence, Independence and beyond. We are also highly experienced in handling expungement cases for eligible clients seeking to seal their criminal records statewide.
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Comprehensive Defense For A Wide Range Of Charges
We represent clients facing a variety of criminal charges, including:
- Driving under the influence
- Felony charges
- Drug charges, including large-scale drug operations
- Minor citations and motor vehicle violations
- Criminal sexual conduct
- Nonviolent and violent family offenses
- Financial and corporate crimes like fraud and embezzlement
- Crimes against property, including destruction by fire
We defend all members of the community, including law enforcement officers and professionals facing criminal allegations that threaten their careers. Our attorneys will work to minimize the negative consequences of a criminal charge and conviction by pursuing dismissals, less severe charges and minimal jail time.
We Believe In Standing Up For Your Rights
Our attorneys firmly believe every accused person has the right to representation. The criminal justice system does not work without excellent legal representation. To this end, we evaluate cases, investigate all of the evidence and challenge every aspect of the state’s case. We take these steps to minimize the long-term effects on your life.
We Prepare Every Case For Appeal
Our firm will never simply give up and accept an unfavorable outcome. With our extensive appellate experience, we prepare every case as if it will go to appeal. We know that the preparation, rights and information secured at the trial level will ultimately determine how you can win on appeal.
What Immediate Steps Should I Take After Being Charged With A Crime In Northern Kentucky?
The moments immediately following an arrest or being charged are the most critical. Your actions can profoundly affect the outcome of your case.
First and foremost, you must exercise your right to remain silent and your right to counsel. Do not speak to police, investigators or anyone else about the facts of your case without an attorney present.
If you are facing an investigation or formal charges for a crime anywhere in Northern Kentucky, the most critical step you can take is to contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer right away. The state of Kentucky begins building its case against you from the moment an incident occurs.
At C. Ed Massey & Associates, PLLC, we believe that strong defense must begin immediately. We will respond promptly to your call or messages to initiate your defense. Our early intervention can involve advising you on the specifics of the bail process. We will also intervene with law enforcement on your behalf and begin the crucial investigation into the evidence the prosecution may use against you. Early legal guidance from our team is essential to protecting your rights.
What Are My Rights When I Am Stopped By Kentucky Law Enforcement?
Understanding your rights is your strongest defense when interacting with law enforcement in Kentucky. These rights are guaranteed under the U.S. Constitution, but you must assert them.
The Right To Remain Silent (Fifth Amendment)
You have the absolute right to refuse to answer any questions about your case. Even if you are not under arrest, anything you say can and will be used against you in court. Politely but firmly state: “I am exercising my right to remain silent, and I would like to speak with my lawyer.” Do not let law enforcement coerce or trick you into talking.
The Right To Refuse Searches (Fourth Amendment)
Law enforcement generally needs a warrant to search your property, vehicle or person. If an officer asks to search you or your vehicle, you have the right to refuse the request. This is common in cases involving drug offenses or DUI stops. Do not physically resist, but clearly state: “I do not consent to a search.” We will challenge the legality of any searches conducted without proper cause or consent.
The Right To Counsel (Sixth Amendment)
Once arrested, you have the right to have an attorney present for all questioning. When you invoke this right, all police questioning must stop until your attorney is present. Our team brings decades of experience fighting to uphold these crucial rights in courts across Erlanger and beyond. We will work tirelessly to ensure the evidence presented against you was obtained legally.
What Is The Long-Term Impact Of A Felony Conviction In Kentucky?
The consequences of a felony conviction in Kentucky are severe and can last a lifetime, far surpassing the time you might spend in jail or on probation. These are often referred to as collateral consequences, and they dramatically affect your future and quality of life.
We will advise you of the long-term impact of various convictions. A felony conviction can result in:
- Employment barriers: Many professional licenses (e.g., nursing, teaching, finance) are permanently revoked or unobtainable. Even minor felony convictions can make it impossible to get and keep a job.
- Housing difficulties: Landlords routinely run background checks. Felony records, particularly those for criminal sexual conduct, can keep you from finding a place to live due to mandatory public registration as a sexual offender for the rest of your life.
- Loss of rights: You lose the right to possess firearms and the right to vote while incarcerated or on probation/parole.
- Immigration issues: Noncitizens face certain deportation for many felony convictions.
Our attorneys firmly believe every accused person has the right to representation. The criminal justice system does not work without excellent legal representation.
Get The Experienced Criminal Defense You Need
To make sure you’re protecting your rights from the onset, contact C. Ed Massey & Associates, PLLC, today to speak with one of our experienced defense attorneys. Call 859-905-0936 or toll-free 866-514-1136 or send us an email to schedule a free initial consultation at our Erlanger office.
