How a Conspiracy Crime Lawyer Can Defend You Against Serious Charges

People are often shocked to find out that they can be charged with a serious crime for conspiring to commit a crime, even if they did not actually commit the crime. If you have been charged with conspiracy in Nevada, you potentially face a lengthy term of imprisonment. Knowing how a conspiracy crime lawyer can help you is crucial to protecting your rights and your freedom.

Conspiracy crime lawyer - The Vegas Lawyers

How Is Conspiracy Defined Under Nevada Law?

In the State of Nevada, the criminal offense of conspiracy is governed by Nevada Revised Statute § 199.480. A criminal conspiracy is defined as “an agreement between two or more people to commit a crime.” A conspiracy can occur even if the underlying crime never takes place. In addition, an “overt act in furtherance of the agreement” is not necessary to convict you of conspiracy in Nevada.

By way of illustration, imagine that you and your friend are discussing robbing a bank. You both agree that you will drive the “getaway” vehicle, and your friend will go into the bank with a note for the bank teller demanding money. Despite the fact that you back out of the bank robbery at the last minute, so no robbery occurs, you could be charged with conspiracy to commit bank robbery.

What Are the Potential Penalties for a Criminal Conspiracy Conviction in Nevada?

The potential punishments for conspiracy depend on the underlying crime that you agree to commit. Generally, criminal conspiracy is charged as a gross misdemeanor in Nevada, punishable by up to 364 days in jail and up to a $2,000 fine. For certain underlying crimes, conspiracy is charged as a category B felony and the potential penalties for a criminal conspiracy conviction increase as follows:

  • Murder: The potential penalty is two to ten years in prison and up to a $5,000 fine.
  • Racketeering: The potential penalty includes five to 25 years in prison and up to a $25,000 fine.
  • Robbery, Assault, Kidnapping (1st or 2nd degree), Arsen (1st or 2nd degree), Involuntary Servitude, Human Trafficking, or Sex Trafficking: The potential penalties include a term of imprisonment of one to six years.

How Can a Nevada Conspiracy Crime Lawyer Help Me?

As you can see, the potential penalties for a criminal conspiracy conviction can be harsh. If you have been charged with conspiracy, a Nevada conspiracy crime lawyer can help you in numerous important ways, including:

  • Protecting Your Rights: As a defendant in a criminal prosecution, you have several important constitutional rights that your attorney can assert and protect for you. Your lawyer can also address any violations of your rights that have already occurred.
  • Conducting an Independent Investigation: The State has already investigated the alleged crime; however, there may be exculpatory evidence your attorney uncovers that could help prevent a conviction.
  • Analyzing the State’s Case: A conspiracy crime lawyer knows what the prosecution needs to prove to secure a conviction and can analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the State’s case.
  • Developing a Defense Strategy: This may include asserting that there was no agreement, that the agreement was not illegal, or may include getting vital State evidence excluded because it was obtained illegally.
  • Negotiating a Plea Agreement: If you and your lawyer decide that entering into a guilty plea agreement is in your best interest, your attorney can negotiate favorable terms on your behalf.
  • Defending You at Trial: If the case goes to trial, you need a skilled lawyer defending you in court.

What Should I Do If I Am Facing Conspiracy Charges in Las Vegas?

If you have been charged with criminal conspiracy in Las Vegas, consult with an experienced Las Vegas conspiracy crime lawyer at The Vegas Lawyers as soon as possible to discuss your next steps. Call us at 702-707-3000 or contact us online.