You committed a crime, but it wasn’t completely on your own. In fact, you weren’t even the one who thought of committing the crime. It was more like you were coerced or had to go along with it.
Plenty of people end up in situations like yours. Those individuals usually work with criminal defense attorneys who are prepared to help build a strong defense. A good defense can make a world of difference in court.
How does a criminal defense attorney help you?
The purpose of hiring a criminal defense attorney is to prepare you for court, to examine witnesses/evidence and to work on your case in general. Criminal defense attorneys cam work with the prosecution to obtain a plea bargain. This plea bargain may help you avoid a prison sentence or receive reduced penalties, so it’s important to listen to what your attorney has to say about it.
If you decide to go to trial to fight the charges, your attorney helps prepare you for court. He or she knows how you should present yourself, the kinds of things you should or should not say and whether or not going to court is a good idea. Sometimes the plea bargain is a safer bet, unless you’re sure you can prove your innocence.
Most importantly, your criminal defense attorney knows the law. He or she can help you understand the penalties you could face and help you devise a defense against any allegations you face. A strong defense can help you have the case dismissed or allow you to walk away innocent. Every case is different, so only your attorney can tell you what to expect.
Source: FindLaw, “What You Can Expect from the Best Criminal Defense Lawyer,” accessed Feb. 16, 2018