No one ever prays to be in a situation where they are facing criminal charges. It can be a very stressful experience that can change the course of one’s life. Whether the offence is minor or serious, there are consequences which range from having a criminal record to jail time.
If unfortunately, you or a loved one is in such situation, you need the service of a criminal lawyer and defense attorney. However, it is very important that you look out for someone like Allen Goldin criminal defense attorney that has an in-depth knowledge of the law. These experts will bring expertise and a depth of advocacy that no lay man can provide.
In this article, we will explore why it is critical to hire a lawyer that specializes in criminal law and not just a general practitioner. We will also explain how their service can make a huge difference in the end-result of a criminal investigation or case.
What Do Criminal Lawyers and Defense Attorneys Bring to the Table?
Although it is acceptable in some cases to stand for oneself in a legal case, it seldom goes well for the person. There are many reasons why you need to engage the services of an expert at law to handle any legal matter especially when it has to do with criminal cases. Find below some of the most significant reasons why you need these professionals: –
Expertise in Criminal Law
This niche in the legal framework of the country is very complex. It is constantly changing with many intricate rules and procedures. A defense attorney is someone that specializes in this niche (criminal Law) and understands local statutes court procedures and precedents. This knowledge comes in handy in navigating legal processes confidently and with accuracy.
Click here to read the simplified explanation of the American criminal law
Even after reading simplified versions of the American criminal laws, you may not fully understand it. However, when you hire a legal luminary, you are saved the stress of trying to wade through the process all alone or understanding complex legal jargons. These professionals will help you understand the charges against you, your rights and the legal strategy that will work best in your favor.
Protection of Your Rights
No matter the charges brought against an individual, they have legal rights that must be protected. These rights include the right to a lawyer, to remain silent and to have a fair trial. However, some people in ignorance may waive these rights or make statements that can be used against them in the court of law.
The presence of a defense lawyer from the get-go helps to prevent any violation of your rights. They will make sure that the law enforcement officers and prosecutors do not infringe on your rights or overstep their jurisdiction. They will do everything within their powers to protect your constitutional rights and enable you have a fair trial.
You can visit this site: https://www.archives.gov/ to see what the American bill of rights says.
Building a Strong Defense Strategy
Every criminal case is unique even if they are similar in text. That is why your attorney will look at the uniqueness of your case and build the right strategy for your defense. This process includes gathering evidence, identifying loopholes in the prosecution’s argument and interviewing witnesses.
Depending on the result of the above, the defense attorney may decide that the best course of action is one of the following: –
- Prove your innocence
- Negotiate a plea bargain
- Get charges dismissed or reduced
- Question the credibility of the witnesses brought by the prosecution
- Present alternatives to what the evidence can mean
Experience in Courtroom Proceedings
Every courtroom has procedures and protocols and criminal/defense attorneys understand them. They have learnt both theoretically and by practice how to persuade juries and judges, cross-examine witnesses and present their argument persuasively and effectively.
In the event that your case gets to trial, it is critical to have someone that has the requisite experience to get the job done.
Negotiation Skills and Plea Bargaining
Often times, non-violent or first-tine offenders stand a better chance with negotiated plea deal than trial. With plea bargains, the offender may get lesser penalty, reduced charges or alternatives such as community service or probation instead of jail time.
These alternatives to imprisonment can only be successfully explored by competent criminal law attorneys who are also trained negotiators. With their knowledge of the law and the system, they know which deals can be considered and what the prosecution is likely to accept. They also know how to present your case for the most favorable outcome that’s possible.
Reducing Sentencing and Penalties
In cases where it is obvious that the offender must face a conviction or that there is a possibility for it, these professionals can help you get a reduced sentence. There are mitigating factors that judges consider during sentencing and they include the character of the defendant, their background, lack of previous offences or remorse.
A defense lawyer knows how to spin these factors perfectly and convince the judge for reduced penalties. This can translate to rehabilitation programs, less jail time or other alternatives to sentencing that can help the offender rebuild their life.
Click here for information on criminal rehabilitation.
Conclusion
When people face criminal charges, it seems like the world is crashing down on them and rightly so, because the implications are dire. However, with a competent defense attorney in your corner, you can breathe easier because they will do all in their power to secure a favorable outcome for you.
Although some people may argue that all it takes is knowing the law in that regard, it is not in your best interest to attempt self-representation; neither is it wise to just choose the first counsel that comes your way. Ensure that you do your due diligence and choose a legal luminary that will do justice to your case. Look out for a competent, reliable and reputable lawyer to represent you and you will be better for it.
