Criminal Defense
Personal Injury
Family Law
The Payne Firm
Why We Are The Best
We are a boutique firm, located in Ruston, LA, whose focus is Criminal Defense, Personal Injury, and Family Law. We make it a priority to continuously build our knowledge of each area of law, to better assist our clients. Our unwavering passion for the practice of law allows us to represent each client with diligence, effort, and GRIT. We understand that a bad experience is likely what brought you to the need of our representation. Therefore, our mission is to interrupt that experience and use our skills and knowledge to provide a positive outcome.
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Case Studies
We Will Help You Every Step Of The Way
After law enforcement is informed about suspiciousactivity, an investigation begins. Investigations typically involve collecting evidence , requesting a search warrant, or interviewing witnesses. If you’re suspected of drunk driving, you may be asked to provide blood or urine samples.
Law enforcement may request an arrest warrant from a judge or just take the suspect into custody based on the totality of the circumstances. The arrest or request for an arrest warrant can only be made if there’s probable cause, which is determined by the evidence gathered during the investigation.
Once an arrest is made, the defendant must participate in their arraignment, or an initial hearing, before a judge. The defendant learns about the charges and enters a plea in response.
if the case is not resolved during plea bargaining, it’s taken to trial.This is where the judge and jury determine who is the guilty party. Your attorney will use evidence to try and defend you. Every criminal defendant has a constitutional right to a trial.
If the defendant pleads guilty or is found guilty
on any of the charges, the judge determines an appropriate sentence based on your criminal history,the severity of the crime, and other factors. Sentences also depend on the state in which you reside, so our attorneys will inform you of Maine’s specific laws.
Even if the defendant is found guilty, he or she can make an appeal to a higher court.During an appeal, the defendant can argue that certain aspects of the trial affected the outcome of the case. If the appellate sides with the defendant, the court may reverse a conviction or request a new trial.