Being accused of any crime is a huge deal, one that you need not ignore! Whether the accusation has substantial backing or not, you will have to stand trial.
In tune, the outcome of the court trial can change the course of your life for better or worse. This is why you must prepare to go through the process without any mistakes, especially if you’ve been falsely accused.
Many people think that they do not need a criminal defense lawyer. Unfortunately, this is usually the case, especially if the person does not agree with the accusations. However, present society makes no room for the legally uninformed.
Likewise, most people decide to defend themselves in court for fear of costs. This is understandable, as hiring a defense lawyer may be quite expensive. Still, you should note that the charges differ from one place to another, with most areas charging hourly.
To give you a picture, criminal defense in Colorado springs offer different hourly rate compared to criminal defense in Florida.
Likewise, legal charges also differ across lawyers. As such, you should base your search based on the quality that matches your budget. Whatever the case, you shouldn’t ignore a criminal defense attorney.
In some cases where you cannot afford to hire a lawyer, the state may provide one for you. Federal criminal defense attorneys do not run private practices. This is why they are the most affordable.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Criminal Defense Attorneys
There are several advantages to letting a defense lawyer handle your case. Below are seven of said reasons.
1. They Understand the System
Reading several materials to prepare your defense in court sounds like a good idea. The problem with this is you may not completely understand because you are not in the system.
On the other hand, defense lawyers have experience, and they know the judicial system better. This means a lawyer will handle your case better than you will.
A criminal defense lawyer can differentiate your case and other criminal cases. As such, they can figure out factors that can be useful in removing criminal charges.
Likewise, since they’re more knowledgeable, you get better guidance through the process—the better your lawyer is, the higher your chances of getting a fair trial.
2. They Offer Legal Advice
Your defense lawyer’s job is to advise on decisions relating to the charge. The lawyer will advise you on the timing and what to do. They will also let you know the consequences of your action.
This will help you stay away from more problems and avoid complicating the issue. They will also advise you on the following steps after the trial.
Not hiring a lawyer means you may not get professional advice which is not safe.
3. They Will Handle the Case Better
A criminal defense attorney will first study your case before making any move. This investigation will help find evidence against you that shouldn’t be there.
Likewise, they can identify loopholes in your case. As such, they will be able to get proof to show that you were wrongly accused or help ease your sentence.
4. Help Avoid Harsh Penalties
The defense attorney’s job is to defend you in court and prevent penalties. If your lawyer can prove your innocence, this could lead to the dismissal of your criminal charges.
If you are guilty, your lawyer can ensure that the penalty is not severe. The lawyer can plead for a lesser punishment on your behalf in court. They can also get bail instead of a prison term for you.
5. Keep You Safe
Depending on how complex the situation is, the public may pick an interest in it. The press may be all over you during the time seeking interviews or statements. Saying the wrong things to the media or others may further complicate your case.
You may be unsure what to say or how to interact with the press. This is where your lawyer comes in. They will guide you on what to say and how to respond to questions. They may also give some answers on your behalf to ensure your safety.
6. They Are Familiar With Prosecutors
Lawyers who have worked in the system for years become familiar with prosecutors. Some of them even develop cordial relationships with them. Such relationships can help negotiate a better plea deal for clients.
You may not enjoy this advantage and lose if you decide to defend yourself in court.
7. They Save You the Stress
Handling a court case is difficult, especially if it’s not your job. A criminal defense lawyer will save you the stress of the process. In addition, this will give you time to figure some things out or raise more funds if necessary.
Such situations can result in mental stress and emotional breakdown. It is better to let your lawyer worry about the legal drama. While they’re at it, you can put together all the information and evidence that will be helpful.
How to Choose the Right Criminal Defense Attorney?
Getting an attorney who is bad at their job is pointless. That is because they will be unable to defend you in court.
On that note, hiring a credible defense lawyer should be a top priority. Here are a few things to consider:
8. Experience
Find out the lawyer’s background. The first thing to know is the years they have worked as a criminal lawyer. While it is counter-intuitive to judge a lawyer because they’re new to the job, hiring an older attorney may boost your confidence.
You must also know how many cases they have under their belt, the kind of cases they have handled, and their success in court.
9. Qualifications
Ensure that they have all the necessary certifications to defend you in court. That is because many fake lawyers are searching for their next victim. So, ensure to run a background check on a lawyer before hiring them.
It is advisable to get recommendations from people you know and trust and who have a related experience.
10. Availability
A court trial is a serious issue; you should treat it as such. Your attorney should always be available when you need them. This will help to avoid any complications that may arise. Also, they need to be present to sort out any recent development as soon as it happens.
11. Character
Pay attention to the lawyer you are considering for hire. It will help if they’re accountable and responsible. Unfortunately, some lawyers do not know how to maintain privacy or relate with others.
While a lawyer’s behavior out of court may not translate to their behavior in court, it is important to be confident in your legal representative.
However, if you’re not confident in their person, do not hire them. That is because something as simple as a communication issue, can be bad for your case.
Conclusion
One day, there may be an accusation against you. Getting a lawyer to defend you from such allegations is better regardless of your innocence.
However, this will increase your chances of serving the wrong penalties. Therefore, ensure that your lawyer is competent and can protect you well in court.
