When It Matters, Make It Maddox

Stamford Criminal Defense

Our Office inStamford, CT

Stamford Office

112 Prospect Street
Suite 3
Stamford, CT 06901
Phone: (475) 325-5574

Open 24/7

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STAMFORD CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEYS

Protecting Your Rights. Defending Your Future.

At The Maddox Law Firm, LLC, we stand with Stamford residents who face life-altering legal battles. If you’ve been charged with a state or federal crime, our mission is clear: aggressive defense, relentless advocacy, and results that matter. Located in the heart of downtown Stamford in Fairfield County, we provide strategic, clear, and direct legal help to protect your future.

CRIMINAL CASES WE DEFEND IN STAMFORD

DUI, DWI & Reckless Driving Defense: Protect individuals charged with driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs, as well as reckless driving violations that put others at risk.
Drug-Related Crimes & Substance Violations: Provide legal support for cases involving the possession, distribution, trafficking, and illegal sale of controlled substances, including prescription drug abuse.
Federal Criminal Defense Cases: Represent those charged with federal offenses, including large-scale drug conspiracies, financial crimes, and white-collar legal matters.
Assault, Domestic Violence & Sexual Crimes: Provide legal defense for individuals accused of assault, sexual assault, domestic disputes, and related violent crimes.
Murder & Manslaughter Defense: Create a strong defense strategy for those facing homicide-related charges, including first-degree murder and wrongful death allegations.
Probation Infractions & Violations: Advocate for clients accused of breaching probation terms, working to avoid further legal consequences.
Unlawful Conduct & Public Disorder Offenses: Defend against charges of causing disturbances, engaging in fights, or other disruptive public behaviors.
Vandalism, Arson & Property Damage: Represent individuals accused of setting fires, damaging property, or engaging in criminal mischief.
Shoplifting, Theft & Burglary Cases: Provide legal support for individuals accused of property-related offenses, including breaking and entering, larceny, and trespassing.
Juvenile Crime Representation: Ensure fair treatment for minors accused of criminal acts while seeking rehabilitative solutions.
Weapons Offenses & Gun Crime Charges: Provide legal representation for firearm-related offenses, including illegal possession and discharge of weapons.
Hit-and-Run & Accident Liability: Defend those accused of leaving the scene of an accident without reporting or providing required information.

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS IF CHARGED WITH A CRIME IN CONNECTICUT

If you’re facing criminal charges in Connecticut, you need to understand the strong set of rights designed to protect you. These include:

Right to remain silent
Right to an attorney
Right to a fair trial
Right to know the charges against you

With clear guidance on these protections, you make informed decisions at every step. We stand beside you to pursue every avenue for leniency, dismissal, or acquittal.

PENALTIES FOR MISDEMEANOR AND FELONY CONVICTIONS IN CONNECTICUT

When you’re charged with a crime in Connecticut, the law draws a sharp line between misdemeanors and felonies. You need to know the difference — the stakes are not the same.

Misdemeanor Offenses: These are considered less serious crimes. While a conviction may still result in significant fines and a criminal record, jail time is capped at up to one year. Examples often include minor theft, simple assault, or some drug possession charges.

Felony Offenses: Felonies cover the most severe criminal acts, from armed robbery to major drug trafficking. These convictions can lead to a year or more behind bars, and many felonies come with strict mandatory minimum sentences. But the consequences don’t stop at prison. A felony record can restrict voting rights, make job hunting tougher, impact your credit, and even limit where you can live.

Misdemeanor Consequences

A misdemeanor is considered less severe but can still disrupt your life. Potential consequences include:

Fines and court costs
Probation, community service, court‑ordered programs
Jail time up to 12 months

While a misdemeanor conviction typically won’t land you in prison for more than twelve months, the mark on your record can have a ripple effect, impacting your job prospects, professional licenses, and sometimes even your housing.

Felony Consequences

Felony offenses are treated with far more gravity under Connecticut law. If convicted of a felony, you may face:

Minimum one year in state prison (often more)
Substantial fines and lengthy probation
Loss of civil rights (voting, firearms)
Major hurdles in employment, loans, and housing

Our team understands the real-world impact a conviction can have, and we fight tirelessly to deliver the strongest possible defense for every client

FACING CRIMINAL CHARGES?

Reach out to schedule a consultation!

FAQ

How do defense attorneys actively protect a client’s rights?

Attorneys defend their clients by examining the prosecution’s evidence, questioning police procedures, analyzing digital or documentary records, and raising any applicable legal defenses to challenge the allegations.

What are the possible long-term consequences of a criminal conviction?

A criminal conviction can cost you your freedom, career, and reputation. Many felony offenses come with severe mandatory minimum jail sentences, and the consequences don’t end there. A conviction can restrict your right to vote and limit your opportunities for employment, credit, and housing.

Do the attorneys at The Maddox Law Firm, LLC, combine personal attention with strong results?

Yes. We offer the close‑knit service of a boutique firm plus the track record of larger practices. Our whole team is here to support you.

Does the firm have experience from both sides of the courtroom?

Our attorneys bring a unique perspective, having worked on both prosecution and defense, giving us insight into all angles of a criminal case.

How accessible will my legal team be?

Clients can conveniently reach us at any of our office locations, making it easier to get the legal support they need.

Does the firm customize its defense for each client?

Absolutely — our legal strategies are always tailored to the unique details and requirements of each individual case, ensuring that every client receives a defense that fits their specific situation.

Why might it be difficult for someone to prove their innocence without legal representation?

Why Legal Representation Matters

Navigating the criminal justice system on your own can feel like stepping onto a chessboard without knowing the rules. Even if you know you’re innocent, there are countless legal nuances—from technical procedures to the specifics of evidence and case law—that can make it nearly impossible to tell your side of the story effectively. Without a seasoned advocate by your side, you risk overlooking critical details, misstating facts in court, or failing to challenge weak or inadmissible evidence. Skilled legal counsel understands not just the statutes and regulations, but also how prosecutors build their cases and how judges view arguments. This experience can make the difference between a conviction and your freedom.

Why is it important to consult a criminal defense lawyer before accepting a plea bargain?

Why You Should Consult a Criminal Defense Attorney Before Accepting a Plea Bargain

Far too many people facing criminal charges agree to plea deals without weighing the long-term consequences. In reality, accepting a plea bargain is not just a quick fix—it can affect your freedom, your career prospects, even where you live or travel in the future. That’s why working with an experienced Stamford criminal defense attorney isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. We understand how overwhelming it can feel when prosecutors push for a fast decision. But what they won’t tell you is:

You May Have Stronger Defenses Than You Think: Without a seasoned lawyer reviewing your case, you could miss legal defenses or evidence issues that could reduce or even dismiss your charges.
Plea Deals Can Carry Hidden Costs: A guilty or “no contest” plea can result in a criminal record, immigration trouble, restricted job opportunities, and even the loss of professional licenses.
Negotiation Matters: A strong attorney knows how to push back, negotiate for a more favorable outcome, or challenge the charges altogether. You deserve to know all your options—not just the ones the prosecution wants you to see.

Never feel pressured to make such an important decision alone. We’re here to ensure you fully understand what’s at stake and to advocate aggressively for your best interests.

What legal rights do you have if you are charged with a crime in Connecticut?

Know Your Rights If Charged with a Crime in Connecticut

If you’re facing criminal charges in Connecticut, it’s essential to understand the strong set of rights designed to protect you. These include the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, the right to a fair trial, and the right to know the charges against you. Law enforcement and prosecutors cannot violate these protections—your freedom and future depend on it. At The Maddox Law Firm, we begin by ensuring you fully understand these rights from the outset. With clarity on your legal protections, you’ll be empowered to make informed decisions at every stage. We’re your line of defense, standing beside you to safeguard your interests and pursue every opportunity for leniency, dismissal, or acquittal.

What are the potential penalties for misdemeanor and felony convictions in Connecticut?

Penalties for Misdemeanor and Felony Convictions in Connecticut

Understanding the stakes is critical when you’re facing criminal charges in Stamford. In Connecticut, offenses fall into two primary categories: misdemeanors and felonies—each carrying its own set of consequences. Misdemeanor Convictions A misdemeanor is considered less severe but can still disrupt your life. Potential consequences include:

Fines and court costs that quickly add up, straining your finances
Probation, community service, and possible court-ordered programs
Jail time of no more than one year

While a misdemeanor conviction won’t land you in prison for more than twelve months, the mark on your record can have a ripple effect—impacting your job prospects, professional licenses, and sometimes even your housing. Felony Convictions Felony offenses are treated with far more gravity under Connecticut law. If convicted of a felony, you may face:

At least one year in state prison, with many statutes imposing mandatory minimum sentences that leave little room for leniency
Substantial fines and lengthy probation periods
Loss of important civil rights, such as the right to vote or own firearms
Major hurdles in employment, loans, housing, and more due to a permanent criminal record

Some felonies, especially those with mandatory sentences, can turn a temporary misstep into a lifetime of limitation. That’s why having a relentless advocate is essential to safeguard your rights and minimize lasting damage. Our team understands the real-world impact a conviction can have—and we fight tirelessly to deliver the strongest possible defense for every client.

What is plea bargaining, and how does it work in Connecticut criminal cases?

Understanding Plea Bargaining in Connecticut Criminal Cases

Most criminal cases in Connecticut aren’t decided by a dramatic courtroom trial. Instead, the majority are resolved through a process called plea bargaining. In its simplest form, plea bargaining is a negotiation between the defense and prosecution, where you may agree to plead guilty—or “no contest”—in exchange for certain concessions. These concessions could include reduced charges, less severe penalties, or even dismissal of specific counts. While this may sound straightforward, the consequences can be significant and long-lasting. Accepting a plea deal might seem like a way to put a stressful situation behind you quickly, but it can impact everything from your criminal record and employment opportunities to immigration status and future rights. That’s why it’s critical to have a knowledgeable Stamford criminal defense attorney at your side during negotiations. We help you weigh the true pros and cons, ensure you aren’t rushed or pressured, and fight for outcomes that truly serve your best interests—not just those that offer a short-term solution. With so much on the line, having the right legal guidance can make all the difference in the trajectory of your case and your future.

What are the differences between felony and misdemeanor offenses in Connecticut?

Distinguishing Felonies from Misdemeanors in Connecticut

When you’re charged with a crime in Connecticut, the law draws a sharp line between misdemeanors and felonies. Understanding this difference is essential—the stakes are not the same.

Misdemeanor Offenses: These are considered less serious crimes. While a conviction may still result in significant fines and a criminal record, jail time is capped at up to one year. Examples often include minor theft, simple assault, or some drug possession charges.
Felony Offenses: Felonies cover the most severe criminal acts, from armed robbery to major drug trafficking. These convictions can lead to a year or more behind bars, and many felonies come with strict mandatory minimum sentences. But the consequences don’t stop at prison. A felony record can restrict voting rights, make job hunting tougher, impact your credit, and even limit where you can live.

The stakes in felony cases couldn’t be higher, making a strong defense essential at every step.

Why should you obtain legal representation as soon as possible if you are facing criminal charges?

What should you do if you are facing criminal charges in Stamford, Connecticut?

Every second counts. Legal matters require immediate attention. At The Maddox Law Firm, LLC, our Stamford criminal defense attorneys act fast, communicate clearly, and build defense strategies that get results. When you face criminal charges, the right legal team makes all the difference. The sooner you act, the better we can protect your rights and fight for your future. Facing criminal charges can feel overwhelming—whether you’re staring down a so-called “rock solid” case or simply reeling from the shock of an arrest. We know the stakes are high. A conviction can turn your life upside down, affecting your freedom, your reputation, your relationships, and your future opportunities. But no matter how serious the charges, you are not without options or hope. Connecticut law is complex, and the prosecution is already gathering evidence and building arguments. But you have rights that must be respected at every turn. Navigating the criminal justice system without a knowledgeable defense attorney can leave you at a serious disadvantage—even if you are completely innocent. That’s why working with a dedicated Stamford criminal lawyer is crucial; we’ll ensure your rights are protected, identify every possible defense, and advocate fiercely on your behalf. Don’t let fear or pressure force you into an unfair plea or hasty decision. We will help you understand your options, whether that means fighting for a dismissal, negotiating for reduced charges, or taking your case to court. Every client and every case deserve a personalized strategy. Reach out to schedule a consultation!

How can a criminal defense attorney help you if you are accused of a crime?

DUI, DWI & Reckless Driving Defense: Protect individuals charged with driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs, as well as reckless driving violations that put others at risk.
Drug-Related Crimes & Substance Violations: Provide legal support for cases involving the possession, distribution, trafficking, and illegal sale of controlled substances, including prescription drug abuse.
Federal Criminal Defense Cases: Represent those charged with federal offenses, including large-scale drug conspiracies, financial crimes, and white-collar legal matters.
Assault, Domestic Violence & Sexual Crimes: Provide legal defense for individuals accused of assault, sexual assault, domestic disputes, and related violent crimes.
Murder & Manslaughter Defense: Create a strong defense strategy for those facing homicide-related charges, including first-degree murder and wrongful death allegations.
Probation Infractions & Violations: Advocate for clients accused of breaching probation terms, working to avoid further legal consequences.
Unlawful Conduct & Public Disorder Offenses: Defend against charges of causing disturbances, engaging in fights, or other disruptive public behaviors.
Vandalism, Arson & Property Damage: Represent individuals accused of setting fires, damaging property, or engaging in criminal mischief.
Shoplifting, Theft & Burglary Cases: Provide legal support for individuals accused of property-related offenses, including breaking and entering, larceny, and trespassing.
Juvenile Crime Representation: Ensure fair treatment for minors accused of criminal acts while seeking rehabilitative solutions.
Weapons Offenses & Gun Crime Charges: Provide legal representation for firearm-related offenses, including illegal possession and discharge of weapons.
Hit-and-Run & Accident Liability: Defend those accused of leaving the scene of an accident without reporting or providing required information.

Facing Charges? Don’t Go It Alone Connecticut’s criminal laws are notoriously complex, and the prosecution is already building a case against you. Even if you believe you’re innocent, proving that in court often requires more than just telling your side of the story. The legal system is filled with technicalities—from evidence rules to legal definitions—that can make or break your case. You need a dedicated advocate who knows how to navigate Connecticut’s legal landscape, spot weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments, and highlight factors that work in your favor. Relying on a lawyer who only occasionally handles criminal matters—or one whose main focus is divorce or injury law—puts your future at risk. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or a serious felony, the stakes are high. Having the right defense can make the difference between conviction and acquittal, between harsh penalties and a second chance. We don’t just fight charges—we fight for your future.

What are the possible long-term consequences of a criminal conviction?

A criminal conviction can cost your freedom, career, and reputation. Many felony offenses come with severe mandatory minimum jail sentences, and the consequences don’t end there. A conviction can restrict your right to vote and limit your opportunities for employment, credit, and housing for years to come.

Why is it important to hire an experienced criminal lawyer rather than a lawyer who only occasionally handles criminal cases?

A criminal conviction can cost your freedom, career, and reputation. Don’t let the system define your fate. If you face charges in Stamford, you need an experienced attorney and law firm to challenge evidence, reduce charges, or secure a dismissal. It’s critical to have legal counsel who understands the complex issues unique to criminal law—someone who can identify the factors that work in your favor and leverage every opportunity for your defense. This isn’t the time to rely on a lawyer who merely dabbles in Connecticut criminal law or whose primary focus is divorce or personal injury cases. Your future deserves a dedicated criminal defense advocate.

How can a felony conviction impact your life beyond legal penalties?

A criminal conviction can cost your freedom, career, and reputation. Many felony statutes carry strict mandatory minimum jail sentences that can upend your life. Beyond time behind bars, a conviction can affect your right to vote, limit professional opportunities, damage your credit, and restrict access to housing. The consequences reach far beyond the courtroom, with effects that can last a lifetime.