Criminal charges in New Orleans move fast. We move faster.
Smith & Bloom defends your rights from minute one—inside the Tulane & Broad courthouse every day.
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New Orleans Criminal Defense for All Charges
Every criminal case comes with consequences — even the ones that seem small. Our approach stays the same across the board:
Fast. Strategic. Local. Aggressive defense.We defend clients facing charges including:
DUI/DWI Defense
We act fast to protect your driving rights and reduce penalties. A DUI arrest doesn’t have to ruin your record.
Misdemeanor Defense
Handle these charges quickly and efficiently in Orleans Parish courts to protect your future from fines, jail time, and a permanent record.
Municipal Court Defense
Skilled defense from lawyers who know the local municipal process and how to minimize disruption in your life.
Traffic & Municipal Court Defense
We minimize penalties and work to keep your record clean before small violations grow into bigger problems (e.g., license suspensions, warrants).
Felony Attorney Representation
For serious cases like homicide and gun possession. We build strong defense strategies to challenge the charges or reduce them when possible.
Homicide / Murder Defense
Aggressive courtroom advocacy prepared for the highest-stakes cases and the most severe penalties.
Weapons / Gun Crimes Defense
Dedicated defense to protect your rights when facing serious gun crimes charges.
Violent Crime Lawyer
We break down the evidence, expose weak points, and protect your rights from accusations like assault, armed robbery, and battery.
Burglary & Armed Robbery
Strategic defense against robbery, burglary, and theft cases that require focused legal work.
Sex Offense Attorney
These cases demand precision and experience. We defend clients against accusations involving sexual offenses with seriousness and care.
Drug Possession Defense
We review every detail to check for unlawful searches and bad evidence or look for chances to dismiss the case early.
Probation Violation Lawyer
We act on timing and local court procedures to help clients explain their side, fix missteps, and avoid harsh penalties that send them back to jail.
Harassment Charges Attorney
We ensure your side is heard and your rights are protected against charges that often rely on conflicting stories and unclear evidence.
Cyber Crime Defense
We break down complex digital evidence and challenge its validity to reduce or dismiss cases based on poor evidence or lack of intent.
White Collar Crime Lawyer
For fraud, money laundering, and identity theft. We focus on document review, negotiation, and smart, detail-oriented court defense.
Domestic Violence Defense
We provide strong legal defense to protect your record and challenge false or exaggerated claims in these sensitive cases.
Expungements
We review your record, check eligibility, and file immediately to clear your name legally by removing eligible charges from public view.
How Criminal Cases Work in Orleans Parish
Arrest
A case usually starts with an arrest by local law enforcement. This can happen on the spot or through a warrant. It’s a critical moment where what you say or do may affect the outcome of your case. Staying silent and requesting a New Orleans criminal defense attorney immediately is the best move.
Bond Hearing
Within 72 hours of arrest, a bond hearing is held to decide if you’ll be released while the case moves forward. The judge considers the charges, your background and risk level. A defense lawyer can argue for lower bond or release on recognizance to avoid unnecessary jail time.
Arraignment
The arraignment is your first formal court appearance. The charges are read, and you enter a plea — usually “not guilty.” It’s also when deadlines are set for the next steps. Having legal counsel present ensures that your rights are protected from the start.
Discovery
During discovery, both sides exchange evidence. Police reports, witness statements, videos and lab results become available. A criminal defense attorney in New Orleans will examine these materials carefully to find weaknesses, inconsistencies or legal violations that may help your case.
Pre-Trial Negotiations
In this stage, prosecutors may offer a plea deal. Some deals are fair, others are not. Our job is to review the offer, explain the impact and negotiate better terms if needed. We only advise taking a deal when it truly benefits you.
Motions & Hearings
We can file motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges or request other actions before trial. Hearings may be scheduled to argue these points. Strategic use of motions can lead to major changes in how the case proceeds, or even get it thrown out.
Trial
If no agreement is reached, the case goes to trial. This could be before a judge or a jury. The prosecution presents its evidence. We challenge it, present your defense and argue for a not guilty verdict. Trial preparation is intense and based on real courtroom experience.
Sentencing
If there’s a conviction or a plea deal, sentencing follows. Penalties depend on the charges, prior record and facts of the case. Sentences can include fines, probation, jail or prison. A defense lawyer can argue for reduced penalties and explain alternatives to incarceration.
Appeals
If convicted, you may have the right to appeal. This involves asking a higher court to review your case for legal errors. Appeals are complex and require a clear legal basis. We guide clients on whether an appeal is worth pursuing and handle the full process when needed.
Expungement Eligibility
After your case is resolved, some charges may qualify for expungement. This means removing them from your public record. Not all cases are eligible, but we check your status and file for expungement whenever possible. A clean record can make a major difference in your future.
Understanding the criminal process in Orleans Parish isn’t just helpful. It’s essential. Each stage carries risks, deadlines and decisions that can shape the outcome of your case. The sooner you know what’s coming, the better your defense can be.
At Smith & Bloom, we guide clients through every step with focus and precision. From arrest to possible expungement, we’re by your side, making sure nothing is left to chance.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in Louisiana
No conviction is small. Even misdemeanors leave scars.
Penalties may include:
- Jail or prison time
- Heavy fines
- Permanent criminal record
- License suspension
- Loss of civil rights
DUI can cost you your license. Domestic violence can tear apart custody rights. Felonies can end careers. Immigration status can be destroyed.
Understanding the risk is the first step. Defending against it is the second.
Crime Types vs. Possible Penalties in Louisiana
Type of Crime | Possible Penalties | Long-Term Risk |
DUI / DWI | Fines, jail time, license suspension | Criminal record, higher insurance rates |
Misdemeanor | Fines, community service, short-term detention | Permanent record, employment barriers |
Felony | Long-term prison, large fines | Loss of civil rights, housing restrictions |
Drug Crimes | Jail, mandatory treatment, probation | Career impact, legal record |
Violent Crimes | Severe prison sentences, restraining orders | Damaged reputation, extended jail time |
Domestic Violence | Jail, protective orders, restricted contact with family | Family disruption, social stigma |
Sex Offenses | Prison, mandatory registration as sex offender | Lifetime monitoring, housing restrictions |
Know Your Rights During a Criminal Case
You have rights. But rights don’t protect you unless you use them immediately.
- The right to remain silent
- The right to an attorney
- The right to challenge evidence
- The right to a fair trial
- The right to avoid self-incrimination
- The right to appeal
Smith & Bloom ensures none of your rights are ignored or bypassed — one police mistake can mean dismissal. But you only benefit if we get involved early.
FAQs About Criminal Defense in New Orleans
What happens after an arrest in New Orleans?
After an arrest in New Orleans, the person is taken to a police station for booking. This includes fingerprints, a mugshot and entering charges into the system. Within 72 hours, the accused is brought to a bond hearing. A judge decides on release conditions or bail. From there, the case proceeds to arraignment and other court steps. Legal representation should be requested immediately.
What is the procedure after arrest?
The process typically follows this order: arrest, booking, bond hearing, arraignment, discovery, pre-trial motions, trial and sentencing if applicable. Each step has deadlines and legal rights attached. A defense attorney helps navigate these stages, challenges evidence, negotiates with prosecutors and prepares for trial if needed. Acting fast after arrest gives you more control over the outcome.
Do police take you home after an arrest?
No. After an arrest, police do not take you home. You are taken to jail for booking and held until a bond hearing or release is granted. In some cases, if charges are dropped quickly or if a summons is issued instead of detention, you may be released — but not escorted home by police.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor?
Yes. A misdemeanor may seem minor, but it still carries real consequences. Fines, jail time and a permanent criminal record can affect jobs, licenses and future legal situations. A criminal defense lawyer can often get charges reduced or dismissed. Ignoring a misdemeanor is a mistake that can follow you for years.
Will I go to jail?
Not always. Jail time depends on the type of charge, your criminal history and the strength of the evidence. Many cases — especially misdemeanors and first offenses — can be resolved without jail. A skilled New Orleans criminal defense attorney will review your case and push for alternatives like probation, treatment or dismissal.
Can my record be cleared?
In many cases, yes. Louisiana law allows expungement for certain charges once the case is resolved. Not all cases qualify, and there are waiting periods in some situations. If eligible, we file for expungement to remove the charge from public view. A clean record opens the door to jobs, housing and stability.
Can a criminal defense lawyer get charges dropped?
Yes, a criminal defense lawyer can sometimes get charges dropped, but it depends on the specifics of the case. Charges may be dismissed when there is weak evidence, constitutional violations, unreliable witnesses or mistakes made by police during the investigation or arrest. A strong defense strategy can expose these problems early. While no attorney can guarantee a dismissal, an experienced criminal defense lawyer can often reduce the charges, negotiate alternatives or push for a full dismissal when the law supports it.
What should I do if the police want to question me?
If police want to question you, stay calm and do not answer any questions until you speak with a criminal defense lawyer. You have the right to remain silent, and anything you say can be used against you later. Politely tell officers that you want an attorney and will not answer questions without one present. Avoid explaining, arguing or trying to “clear things up.” The safest move is to stop talking and contact a lawyer immediately.
Ready to Defend You