Criminal Defense · Shreveport
Criminal Defense Attorney in Shreveport, Louisiana
Smith & John Attorneys at Law offers criminal defense representation in Shreveport, Louisiana, handling charges ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies in Caddo Parish courts. The firm works with individuals who are under investigation, have been arrested, or are facing trial and need an attorney who knows the local court system.
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Criminal Defense · Shreveport
What does a criminal defense attorney in Shreveport actually do for your case?
A criminal defense attorney in Shreveport reviews the evidence against you, challenges the prosecution's case, and works to protect your rights at every stage of the legal process. From the moment of arrest through arraignment, pre-trial hearings, and — if necessary — trial in Caddo Parish District Court, the attorney's role is to scrutinize how evidence was gathered, whether your constitutional rights were respected, and what options exist for your specific situation. Criminal charges in Louisiana can carry serious consequences including jail time, fines, and a permanent record that affects employment and housing. Defense representation is not only for people who plan to go to trial; many cases involve negotiating with prosecutors, seeking reduced charges, or pursuing diversion programs. Smith & John handles this work for clients facing a wide range of charges in Shreveport.
- Handles misdemeanor and felony charges in Caddo Parish District Court and Shreveport City Court
- Reviews arrest circumstances and evidence for constitutional violations, including unlawful searches
- Represents clients at arraignments, bond hearings, pre-trial motions, and trial
- Works on cases involving DWI, drug charges, assault, theft, and other criminal matters in Shreveport
- Advises clients on how Louisiana's criminal statutes and sentencing guidelines apply to their specific charge
- Serves clients from all Shreveport neighborhoods and parishes who need local criminal defense counsel
What to expect
Your criminal defense visit, step by step
Initial Consultation
You speak directly with the firm about your charges, the facts of your situation, and what your immediate options are under Louisiana law.
Case Review and Investigation
The attorney reviews police reports, evidence, and any documentation related to your arrest or charges to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
Court Appearances and Negotiations
The attorney appears with you at Caddo Parish arraignments, hearings, and pre-trial proceedings, and communicates with prosecutors on your behalf.
Resolution
Whether through a negotiated plea, dismissal, diversion, or trial, the attorney guides you through the final resolution of your case and explains what it means for your record.
FAQ
Criminal Defense in Shreveport — common questions
What factors affect the cost of hiring a criminal defense attorney in Shreveport?
The cost of criminal defense representation in Shreveport generally depends on the severity of the charge — misdemeanor cases typically involve less attorney time than felony matters that go to trial. Other factors include the complexity of the evidence, the number of hearings required, and whether the case resolves early or proceeds through a full trial in Caddo Parish District Court. Contact Smith & John directly to discuss fees for your specific situation.
How long does a criminal case take to resolve in Caddo Parish?
The timeline for a criminal case in Caddo Parish varies widely depending on the charge, court docket, and whether the matter is resolved through a plea or goes to trial. Misdemeanor cases may move relatively quickly through Shreveport City Court, while felony cases in Caddo Parish District Court can take several months or longer. An attorney can give you a clearer picture once they've reviewed the specifics of your case.
Who needs a criminal defense attorney in Shreveport?
Anyone who has been arrested, received a summons, or is under investigation for a criminal matter in Shreveport should consider speaking with a criminal defense attorney as early as possible. This includes people facing first-time charges as well as those with prior records, since Louisiana law treats repeat offenses more seriously. Early legal counsel can affect how your case is handled from the very first court appearance.
Should I just use a public defender for my criminal case in Shreveport?
Public defenders are licensed attorneys who provide an important service, but they typically carry very high caseloads in Louisiana's public defender system, which can limit the time available for each client. Hiring a private criminal defense attorney at a firm like Smith & John means more direct access to your attorney throughout your case. The right choice depends on your financial situation and the complexity of your charges.
Does it matter that Smith & John is primarily known for personal injury — can they handle criminal defense in Shreveport?
Smith & John Attorneys at Law handles criminal defense as a practice area for clients in Shreveport and the surrounding region, separate from their personal injury work. The firm's familiarity with the local Caddo Parish court system is relevant across practice areas. If you have questions about whether the firm handles your specific type of criminal charge, the best step is to call and discuss your situation directly.
Serving Shreveport
More services & nearby areas
Smith & John Attorneys at Law serves clients throughout Shreveport and is familiar with the Caddo Parish courts, local prosecutors, and the procedures that shape how criminal cases move through the system here. Clients in neighborhoods like Broadmoor, Stoner Hill, and the South Highland area don't have to travel far — the firm is accessible to Shreveport residents dealing with a stressful situation close to home.
Visit us
Hours & location
| Monday | 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Friday | 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
Ready for criminal defense in Shreveport?
Smith & John is available Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM at their Shreveport office on Youree Drive. Call or reach out to discuss whether the firm may be able to help with your matter.
Call (318) 219-1001