Criminal Defense

Founded in 1914, Normandin, Cheney & O'Neil is a full-service law firm that includes New Hampshire criminal defense attorneys. With decades of combined legal experience, we have exceptional courtroom skills and proficiency defending people in Belknap, Grafton, Carroll, and Merrimack Counties against a wide range of charges. For example, we have handled both felony and misdemeanor cases involving theft crimes, assault, DUI, drug offenses, and more. We are also available to people who need an injury attorney or representation in matters related to estate planning and probate, family law, real estate, business law, workers’ compensation, and government benefits.

In New Hampshire, crimes are generally classified according to the severity of the penalties. Conviction of a felony may result in a minimum of one year of prison time. Felonies are categorized as either Class A or Class B. Class A felonies include serious crimes, such as murder, manslaughter, kidnapping and others, and they carry a potential punishments of seven and a half to fifteen years of incarceration, fines, and probation. Class B felonies include drug possession, a fourth-time charge of driving under the influence, computer fraud, and theft of property valued between $500 and $1,000. Class A misdemeanors may be punishable by up to a year in jail and fines of up to $2,000. Certain drug related offenses are often categorized as Special felonies. Class B misdemeanors, such as first-time drunk driving charges, do not lead to jail time but may result in fines and other penalties. It is important to note that certain factors may result in elevated charges, such as a subsequent offense or aggravated circumstances.

If you have been arrested or formally accused of a crime, you have the opportunity to defend yourself with the assistance of an attorney. The prosecution has a very high burden of proving each element of the crime charged beyond a reasonable doubt. Therefore, presenting evidence and testimony to counter the state’s allegations or objecting to the admission of improper evidence by the state may undermine the state’s case against you at trial. For example, evidence that was obtained by police as the result of an unconstitutional search or interrogation may be suppressed by the judge.

There are several arguments that may justify the defendant’s actions. Using force in self-defense or in the defense of others is allowed under New Hampshire law in certain circumstances, such as when the defendant reasonably believes someone is about to use unlawful force against him or her, or another person, and is unable to safely retreat. Consent may be used as a defense when the parties agree to engage in acts that would otherwise be illegal, such as in some assault cases. In some cases, the defendant may have lacked the requisite intent to commit the crime or have been incorrectly identified as the perpetrator. A knowledgeable criminal defense attorney can craft a strategy that is tailored to your circumstances.

Retaining a New Hampshire criminal defense lawyer to advocate on your behalf may help in defeating a conviction or obtaining a more favorable result. At Normandin, Cheney & O'Neil, we are committed to providing aggressive legal representation and effective defense strategies for people charged with criminal offenses. Based in Laconia, we represent residents of Belknap, Grafton, Carroll, and Merrimack Counties. Call us at (603) 524-4380 or contact us online to set up a consultation. If you are seeking a family law attorney or guidance with a corporate law, personal injury, workers’ compensation, Social Security, estate planning, or real estate matter, our practice groups in those areas also are ready to assist you.