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Criminal Defense Attorney in Ouachita Parish

Protecting Your Rights in Ouachita Parish Criminal Cases

If you have been charged with a crime in Ouachita Parish, your future hangs in the balance. The time to act is now. At Whiddon Criminal Defense, we understand the local legal landscape and provide vigorous defense strategies for each client’s unique case. Our experienced criminal defense lawyers have successfully represented countless clients throughout Monroe, West Monroe, and surrounding areas, fighting to protect their freedom and reputation.

Why Time Is Critical in Criminal Defense Cases

The moments following an arrest are crucial for building a strong defense. Evidence can disappear, witnesses’ memories can grow dim, and critical legal deadlines approach quickly. Our criminal defense attorneys will handle every aspect of your case, including:

  • Gathering and preserving vital evidence
  • Challenging unlawful searches and seizures
  • Examining police procedures and protocols
  • Interviewing potential witnesses while memories are fresh
  • Analyzing witness statements and credibility
  • Reviewing surveillance footage and physical evidence
  • Consulting with expert witnesses when necessary
  • Filing necessary motions within court-mandated deadlines
  • Negotiating with prosecutors early in the process
  • Protecting you from making statements that could harm your case

Whiddon Criminal Defense Services in Ouachita Parish

As experienced criminal defense lawyers serving the local community, we handle a wide range of cases:

  • DWI/DUI defense and blood alcohol testing challenges
  • Drug possession and trafficking charges
  • Violent crime allegations
  • Theft and property crimes
  • Sex crimes defense
  • Domestic violence cases
  • White-collar criminal defense
  • Weapons charges

The Impact of Criminal Charges on Your Future

A criminal conviction in Ouachita Parish can affect:

  • Employment opportunities: Under Louisiana law (LA Rev. Stat. § 23:897), employers can access criminal records during background checks. 
  • Professional licensing: Louisiana licensing boards may deny, suspend, or revoke professional licenses for some convictions, affecting several professions, including healthcare workers, educators, contractors, financial services professionals, etc.
  • Housing options: The Fair Housing Act doesn’t protect individuals with criminal records, and Louisiana landlords can legally deny housing based on criminal history. 
  • Educational prospects: Under federal law (20 U.S.C. § 1091), drug convictions can affect eligibility for federal student aid. Additionally, Louisiana universities may require disclosure of criminal history during the application process, potentially impacting admission decisions.
  • Family relationships: The Louisiana family courts could consider criminal convictions when determining custody and visitation rights. Certain convictions, especially those involving domestic violence or child abuse, can severely restrict parental rights.
  • Immigration status: Criminal convictions can trigger deportation proceedings under federal immigration law.
  • Voting rights: Under Louisiana Constitution Article I, Section 10, individuals convicted of felonies lose their right to vote while incarcerated and on probation or parole. Rights can be restored, but it is often a long and drawn-out process.
  • Firearm ownership: Louisiana law (LA Rev. Stat. § 14:95.1) prohibits possession of firearms by individuals convicted of certain felonies for 10 years after sentence completion. Federal law permanently bans firearm possession for felony convictions.

Experience Sets Whiddon Criminal Defense Apart

Keith T. Whiddon’s background as a former public defender in Ouachita Parish has provided invaluable insights into the local criminal justice system. His work defending clients against charges ranging from DWI to violent crimes and his experience representing over 300 children in the Louisiana Foster Care System demonstrates a deep commitment to serving the community. As Louisiana’s ambassador to the American Association of Premier DUI Attorneys and an approved instructor for the association, he brings specialized knowledge to DWI defense cases that few other attorneys in northern Louisiana can match. Whatever your situation, Mr. Whiddon is known for his professionalism, preparedness, and tenacity in fighting for what is right for his clients.

A Client-Focused Approach to Criminal Defense

At Whiddon Criminal Defense, we understand that facing criminal charges can be stressful, which is why we’ve structured our practice around transparency and accessibility. Our firm offers flat-fee pricing to eliminate financial surprises during your case, and we provide a trial guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with a plea deal offered, we will defend you at trial. We are committed to client satisfaction. It is our goal to ensure every person who walks through our doors receives the personal attention, dignity, and respect they deserve during this challenging time.

Your Rights Under Louisiana Criminal Law

Understanding your rights is crucial for your defense. We will use these rights to protect you; you should, too. 

  • Right to remain silent: Anything you say can be used against you in court. Even casual comments to police that seem harmless could become crucial evidence. Remain silent until you speak with one of our defense attorneys at Whiddon Criminal Defense. 
  • Right to legal representation: The complexity of criminal law means you may unknowingly miss crucial defense opportunities without an attorney’s guidance. Remember, you have the right to have counsel present during any questioning by law enforcement. Exercise your right to remain silent.
  • Right to challenge evidence: Whiddon Criminal Defense can file motions to suppress evidence obtained illegally or improperly, potentially leading to dismissed charges. For example, if proper procedures are not followed, blood test results in DWI cases can be challenged.
  • Right to a fair trial: This encompasses numerous protections, including an impartial jury, public proceedings, and the presumption of innocence. Everyone deserves respect. Whiddon Criminal Defense will vigorously defend your constitutional right: innocent until proven guilty. 
  • Right to confront witnesses: Our attorneys can cross-examine prosecution witnesses to expose inconsistencies in their testimony or potential biases, often revealing weaknesses in the prosecutor’s case that can be used to win your freedom.
  • Right to present evidence: With our firm’s help, you can call witnesses and present evidence in your defense—this might include alibi witnesses or proof of self-defense.
  • Protection against unlawful searches: Law enforcement must have probable cause and a warrant to search your property. Evidence obtained through illegal searches can be excluded from trial and allow you to walk free or face a lesser penalty.

Taking Action to Protect Your Rights and Freedom

Don’t wait to begin building your defense. Your freedom is at stake, and every moment counts when facing criminal charges in Ouachita Parish. Contact Whiddon Criminal Defense at 318-594-3592 for a free consultation. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and pursue the most favorable outcome for you.