Criminal Law

• Criminal Defense
  An experienced lawyer specializing in OWI and criminal defense can make the experience much less difficult, ensure your rights are protected, and that you receive the minimum possible penalty.
• DUI/DWI
  An OWI / DUI charge was filed following a traffic stop for an alleged littering violation in University Heights.  After a discussion between Mr. Thompson and the assistant county attorney, the case was dismissed.
• Traffic Violations
  The In Bar Under 21 Past 10 pm law is a local ordinance violation with a “scheduled” fine. A scheduled offense (like most traffic tickets) is not eligible for a deferred judgment.
• Burglary
  Defendant was charged with Burglary for entering his former-roommate’s apartment allegedly without permission.  The jury deliberated for several hours before delivering a verdict of not guilty for all charges and lesser-included offenses.  More information here.
• Theft
• Misdemeanors
  Possession of Fictitious ID is a serious misdemeanor. The maximum penalty is one year in jail and a fine of $2560, but a more likely outcome is a deferred judgment with a civil penalty of $430. The deferred judgment would require the defendant to avoid all new criminal charges while on a period of probation, and pay a probation fee of $300.
• Drug Crimes
  The Johnson County Attorney’s Office use to run a diversion program for marijuana charges, but this somewhat died during the pandemic. However, in some situations a dismissal can be negotiated. Other cases will require a deferred judgment. Both scenarios avoid a conviction. A drug conviction can have serious future consequences, including applications for federal financial aid.
• Assault
  This includes Possession of Fake/Fictitious ID, Possession of Controlled Substances (Marijuana), Public Intoxication, In Bar Past Curfew, Interference with Official Acts, Possession of Alcohol Under Legal Age, and Assault charges.
• Juvenile Crimes
• Probation Violation
  Defendant charged with Possession of Marijuana, 2nd offense, Drug Paraphernalia and Probation Violation – Charges Dismissed, Probation Case Expunged
• Shoplifting
  Citizen was charged with shoplifting, Theft in the 5th Degree, after approaching the exit of a local grocery store with a cloth bag containing fruit and vegetables that were not paid for. The items were visible, sticking out of the cloth shopping bag. Video showed the loss prevention officers’ rash reaction and refusal to listen to the facts. Case dropped after subpoena of video, and negotiations with the State.