Our Criminal Defense Lawyers Protect Your Rights
Being charged with a crime in Dover, Delaware, is one of the most stressful experiences a person can face. Your freedom, your record, and your future are suddenly in question. You need a criminal defense attorney who understands the criminal justice system, is familiar with local courts and prosecutors, and is dedicated to protecting your rights at every stage of the process.
At Schmittinger & Rodriguez, our criminal defense lawyers have decades of experience representing clients charged with misdemeanors and felonies in Kent County Superior Court, Family Court, and the Court of Common Pleas. We know how much is at stake, and we treat every case with the seriousness it deserves — whether you are facing a first-time DUI or a serious felony.
Call (302) 674-0140 to schedule a confidential consultation with a Dover criminal defense lawyer.
Criminal Defense Practice Areas
Our defense attorneys represent clients across a wide range of criminal charges in Dover, DE:
- DUI and reckless driving — Charges involving driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, refusal to submit to testing, and reckless driving offenses
- Drug crimes — Possession, distribution, and related offenses involving controlled substances
- Assault and violent crimes — Simple assault, aggravated assault, domestic violence, and other offenses classified as violent crimes
- Theft and property crimes — Shoplifting, burglary, robbery, and theft under or over statutory thresholds
- Juvenile offenses — Charges against minors heard in Family Court, often alongside related family law and child custody issues
- Probation violations — Allegations of violating probation terms that can result in additional penalties or incarceration
- White-collar and fraud offenses — Financial crimes, credit card fraud, and other non-violent offenses
Our law firm also represents clients when criminal charges intersect with family law or real estate law matters — for example, domestic violence allegations alongside custody disputes, or criminal accusations tied to property-related disputes. Whatever the circumstances, we build a defense strategy tailored to your specific case.
Your Rights in the Criminal Justice System
If you have been charged, or believe you may be charged, it is important to understand your rights:
- You have the right to remain silent and to decline to answer questions from law enforcement or investigators
- You must be informed of your Miranda rights before custodial questioning
- You have the right to legal representation at all critical stages of the case
- You have the right to a trial by jury of your peers
- The U.S. Constitution grants you the right to a speedy trial
- You cannot be prosecuted for the same offense twice
Consulting a criminal attorney before speaking with investigators is one of the most important steps you can take to protect these rights. Our defense attorneys can explain the process, advise you on what to expect, and begin building a defense immediately.
How Our Criminal Defense Attorneys Approach Your Case
Criminal cases are not all the same. Our criminal defense attorneys develop strategies based on the specifics of each case and each client’s goals:
- Early consultation and case review — We discuss the charges, explain the process, and review available evidence and court records
- Investigation and evidence gathering — We gather facts, identify potential witnesses, and analyze police reports, videos, and other evidence
- Protecting your rights — We ensure that constitutional protections are respected and challenge any negligence in upholding those rights
- Negotiation and plea discussions — Where appropriate, we discuss plea options with the prosecutor, including reduced charges or alternative sentencing
- Trial readiness — We prepare every case as if it will go to trial, because significant trial experience and credible readiness often lead to more positive outcomes in negotiations
Our team is familiar with local judges and prosecutors in Kent County, which allows us to navigate the criminal justice system efficiently while always keeping your interests at the center of every decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Criminal charges can lead to jail time, probation, fines, and collateral consequences that affect employment, housing, and family matters. Criminal defense lawyers handle everything from minor traffic tickets to serious felonies, and defendants who have experienced counsel consistently achieve better outcomes than those who face charges alone or rely solely on public representation. Even a single consultation can clarify your options today.
Costs depend on the complexity of the case, whether it involves accidents or injuries, and whether it goes to trial. Some defense attorneys charge flat fees for certain DUI cases; others charge hourly rates. At Schmittinger & Rodriguez, we provide a clear explanation of fees and services before you decide to move forward, and we discuss payment options so you know what to expect.
Most first-offense DUI charges in Delaware are misdemeanors, but repeat offenses and cases involving serious injuries or death can be treated more severely and may carry felony-level consequences. Any DUI charge is serious, and a criminal lawyer can help you understand the potential penalties in your situation and whether it is worth fighting your case.
With your own defense attorney, open communication is essential — they need to know the full story to represent you effectively. What you should avoid is speaking with police, prosecutors, or other investigators without counsel. Statements made without an attorney present can be used against you, and comments made before you fully understand the charges or evidence may harm your case. Always speak to a defense attorney first.
Contact Our Dover Criminal Defense Team
If you or a family member has been charged with a crime in Dover or anywhere in Kent County, do not wait to speak with a criminal defense lawyer. Early involvement can make a significant difference in protecting your freedom, your record, and your future.
YOUR CASE. OUR PRIORITY.
📞 (302) 674-0140
📍 414 South State Street, Dover, DE 19901
Confidential consultations available.