3 Key Reasons To Hire A Criminal Defense Attorney
Posted on: 26 April 2023
If you have been arrested and charged with a crime, you should take the time to consider all the possible approaches to your defense. While some choose to attempt to represent themselves, this is almost always an ill-advised strategy. It is much better to hire a criminal defense attorney who, along with their legal team, can fight for the best possible outcome when all is said and done. Take a look below at just a few of the reasons you should contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you have a criminal charge pending.
They Can Tell You What to Expect
A criminal defense lawyer is someone who knows the ins and outs of the law and legal proceedings. Much like you should not seek medical help from anyone other than a doctor, you shouldn't put your case in the hands of anyone except a qualified, experienced attorney. They can show you concrete examples of previous cases similar to your own and let you know what to expect at each stage of the process. Being prepared for what comes next makes the process a little less stressful and overwhelming, which is reason enough to hire a lawyer.
They Can Prevent Self-Incrimination
Even if you are innocent, you may accidentally incriminate yourself during the initial stages of your case. In fact, you may do this without even knowing it. A single sentence in a sworn statement or an offhand remark during a conversation with a police officer can be enough to "prove" that you are guilty of the crime of which you have been accused. Thankfully, an attorney can prevent this from happening by advising you on when to speak and what to say. They can also prep you for cross-examination should your case ultimately go to trial.
They Can Present You with All Your Options
If you are not a legal professional, you may not be aware of all the options available to you. For example, if you are charged with a felony, you may still be eligible to enter into a plea bargain. If so, you could plead guilty in exchange for having the charge reduced to a misdemeanor. While this is not the right choice for every person in every situation, it can be an invaluable option for many. Feel free to contact a criminal defense attorney to learn more about some of your options.
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