Criminal Defense Attorney in Georgetown, KY
Experienced defense for people charged with crimes in Scott County and the surrounding counties.
Facing Criminal Charges in Scott County?
Criminal Justice Services
An arrest or criminal charge can put your freedom, your job, your driver’s license and your reputation at risk. What you do in the first days after a charge can affect the whole case. David Higdon has defended clients against charges brought by the Commonwealth of Kentucky for more than 20 years. He knows the Scott County courts, the local procedures and how to build a defense around the facts of your case.
David will explain the charges against you, what you’re facing and the options available. Then he’ll work to protect your rights at every stage, from arraignment through dismissal, a negotiated resolution or trial.
Criminal Cases We Handle
- Misdemeanors: Theft, shoplifting, disorderly conduct, criminal mischief and other charges heard in District Court.
- Felony charges: Serious charges that are indicted by a grand jury and prosecuted in Circuit Court.
- Drug charges: Possession, possession with intent, trafficking and paraphernalia charges.
- Assault and domestic violence: Criminal assault charges and the protective orders (EPOs and DVOs) that often come with them.
- Probation and parole violations: Representation at revocation hearings to protect your freedom and argue for alternatives to jail.
- Theft and property crimes: Theft, burglary, receiving stolen property and fraud-related charges.
- Expungement: Help clearing eligible charges and convictions from your record so they don’t follow you.
How a Criminal Case Moves Through Kentucky Courts
- Arraignment: Your first court appearance happens in District Court, where you’re formally told the charges.
- Misdemeanor cases: These stay in District Court. In Kentucky, a misdemeanor can carry up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $500.
- Felony cases: These start in District Court, often with a preliminary hearing. They move to Circuit Court if a grand jury returns an indictment. A felony carries a possible sentence of more than one year.
- Pretrial phase: David reviews the evidence, files motions where appropriate, challenges weak points in the prosecution’s case and negotiates with the Commonwealth’s Attorney or County Attorney.
- Resolution: Your case may end in dismissal, a reduced charge, diversion, a plea agreement or a trial. You make the final decision with David’s advice.
Why Local Experience Matters
Criminal cases are handled differently from one court to the next. David has spent more than two decades in Scott County courtrooms and knows how local cases tend to move. That experience helps him give you a realistic picture of your situation and plan the right strategy.
Other Practice Areas
Talk With a Scott County Criminal Defense Attorney
Don’t wait until your court date. Call (502) 863-5515 or contact our office to schedule a free consultation with David Higdon.
Criminal Defense FAQs: Scott County, KY
Common questions about criminal charges and the court process in Kentucky.
What should I do if I’ve been arrested or charged with a crime?
Stay calm and use your right to remain silent. Politely tell officers you want to speak with a lawyer before answering questions. Don’t discuss your case with anyone, including on social media, and call our office as soon as you can.
What’s the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Kentucky?
A misdemeanor can carry up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $500, and it’s handled in District Court. A felony carries a possible sentence of more than one year in prison and is prosecuted in Circuit Court after a grand jury indictment.
What happens at an arraignment?
The arraignment is your first court appearance, and it takes place in District Court. The judge formally tells you the charges, addresses bond and sets your next court date. Having a lawyer with you from the start helps protect your rights.
How does a felony case move through the courts?
Felony cases start in District Court, often with a preliminary hearing. If a grand jury returns an indictment, the case moves to Scott Circuit Court for the rest of the process. A District Court judge can’t accept a guilty plea to a felony.
What happens if I’m accused of violating probation?
A probation violation can lead to a revocation hearing, where the court decides whether you’ll serve the original sentence. David can represent you at that hearing, challenge the alleged violation and argue for alternatives to jail.
Can I get a criminal charge removed from my record in Kentucky?
Often, yes. In Kentucky, charges that are dismissed with prejudice or end in an acquittal are generally expunged automatically. Many misdemeanor and Class D felony convictions can also be expunged once waiting periods and other requirements are met. David can review whether your record qualifies.
How can a protective order affect me?
An Emergency Protective Order (EPO) or Domestic Violence Order (DVO) can affect where you live, your contact with your children and your right to possess firearms. It can also come up in a related criminal case or a custody dispute, so it’s important to get legal advice before your hearing.