Are you struggling with criminal charges? Are you wondering if you need a criminal defense lawyer?
It’s challenging to deal with any court charge with self-representation, which fails one out of three times. You’ll need to research the law and file paperwork, which isn’t easy to do alone.
The state also has a higher chance of convicting you without a lawyer, as many cases follow a pattern. This is where you need a lawyer. The lawyer can represent you in court, where they can negotiate terms or get charges dismissed.
Read on to learn when you should hire a criminal defense lawyer.
Table of Contents
The Early Stages of a Criminal Case
The early stages of a criminal case are critical. If the police made an arrest and ask you questions, you have the right to remain silent. It is your right to have an attorney present during questioning.
An experienced criminal defense attorney can protect your rights and help you with different types of criminal defense.
The Charge and the Arrest
Immediately after an arrest, the Miranda rights will be stated. These rights include the right to have an attorney present during questioning, and the right to remain silent. It is important to have an attorney present during any questioning, as anything you say can be used against you in court.
An experienced criminal defense attorney can help protect your rights, and ensure that you are treated fairly during the criminal justice process.
The Bail Process
If you are facing charges and believe that you may be subject to the bail process, it is important to call a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you understand the charges against you and the potential consequences of those charges.
They can also help you navigate the bail process, including helping you to post bail and to appear in court.
The Pretrial Conference
A pretrial conference is a meeting between the prosecutor and defense attorney to discuss the facts of a case and any possible resolutions. This meeting is usually held after the defendant has been arraigned and before the trial begins.
The purpose of the pretrial conference is to narrow the issues for trial, discuss possible plea bargains, and set a trial date. If you do not agree to a plea bargain, the case will go to trial. Have an attorney meeting before accepting a plea bargain.
The Trial
During the trial, a lawyer can help you with what to do next and how to best prepare for your trial. Your lawyer will also be able to help you understand the charges against you and the possible outcomes of your trial.
If you are facing a serious charge, it is essential to have a lawyer by your side who can help you navigate the criminal justice system and fight for the best possible outcome.
Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer
It is important to contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. You need a lawyer from the early stage of the criminal case. Also during the charge and arrest. If you are in the bail process, pre-trial conference, or even if you are already on trial, you still need a lawyer.
When your freedom is on the line, don’t wait to call a criminal defense lawyer.
If you want more legal advice for any legal issues you may face, check out our blog.