Property Damage

At Owens & Perkins, we know that often people charged with Criminal Damage don't even realize how their actions constitute a crime. Simply damaging property of another is not enough to make one guilty of criminal damage. The damage must have been caused intentionally, knowingly or recklessly. Owens & Perkins has experienced, effective Attorneys to represent you in these types of cases.

First, every aspect of your case needs to be investigated. From interviewing eyewitnesses and other potential witnesses to reviewing any physical evidence, our Attorneys will strive to evaluate the strength of the case against you and develop any and all potential defenses. This includes whether the conduct that allegedly occurred actually rises to the level of this criminal offense. In some cases, a person charged with this crime may wish to pursue a misdemeanor compromise where the victim agrees to dismiss the case if they are compensated for the amount of the damage.

Next, we will discuss the outcome of the investigation with you, and together decide on the best course of strategy. Sometimes, when the State has a strong case, that strategy will be to negotiate for the best possible deal with the Prosecutor. This will include gathering and presenting mitigating evidence to the Prosecutor and, when possible, seeking to achieve a deal that avoids or reduces incarceration time or even avoids a criminal conviction. This evidence includes not only evidence showing any weaknesses in their case, but also evidence of your good character that shows why you should not be treated like a common criminal.

If, on the other hand, you are innocent or there are solid defenses to the charges, we may elect to proceed to trial. If that is the path chosen, our experienced trial Attorneys will fight for you. This includes filing any Pre-Trial Motions to limit the evidence that may be admissible against you, as well as preparing the case for trial to present to a jury or judge in a light most favorable to you.

If you are interested in contacting Owens & Perkins to learn more about how we will defend you against your criminal charge, click here or call us at 480.994.8824.