It’s normal to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do after learning that you’re facing a criminal charge, much more so if the allegations were unexpected. A criminal charge is a grave matter that shouldn’t be taken lightly. The earlier you hire a criminal defense attorney, the better your chances of walking free or at least getting a fair trial.
Certain situations will reveal the need for a criminal defense attorney. For instance, when police officers come to your home or workplace on a random day and take you in for questioning, you’re likely the subject of an ongoing investigation. Before answering any questions, speak with criminal defense consultants first.
Another sign you need to hire a criminal defense attorney is if you’re facing criminal charges for a crime such as a burglary, but you’re innocent. In such a case, burglary lawyers can help you get the charges dropped.
Note that the accused persons defense plays a key role in how a case turns out. Life as a criminal defense lawyer involves constantly dealing with different criminal cases, which gives them valuable experience. Give us a call today for help getting a reputable criminal defense attorney who’ll represent you in court.
Updated 05/11/22
If you’ve been charged with committing a crime, you need a criminal lawyer. A criminal lawyer will do more than speak in court for you; they will research, analyze and use their legal knowledge to dissect the case in your favor. Judging by searches on Google like “what is a defense attorney definition” or” who is a defense attorney,” there is some confusion between the roles of a criminal lawyer and a defense attorney. The primary difference lies in the fact that a defense attorney can’t provide court services unless they have earned the title of ‘defense attorney at law.”
However, they need to be trained as a lawyer to get that title. Should you be charged with a crime, a search for criminal lawyers in my area will give you a list of options to choose from. But remember that your freedom is at stake, so do see at least three lawyers before choosing one. You should also consider their expertise in your specific type of case. For example, if you’ve been accused of a felony crime, you should be looking for a felony criminal defense attorney.
When you need tips for hiring a criminal defense attorney, it’s important to choose one that has experience with the specific types of criminal charges that are being faced. A criminal defense law firm tends to have several attorneys ton staff. In this way, they can provide criminal defense options that are relevant to a client’s case.
The importance of hiring a criminal defense attorney cannot be stressed enough. Due to their education, training, and experience, they will be able to provide you with information on your rights and responsibilities under the law. In addition, a defense attorney will be able to assess the evidence in your case, provide counsel, and otherwise be there to offer professional support during this difficult time.
Knowing Your Rights
Are you aware of the Fifth, Sixth, and Eighth Constitutional Amendments, for example? The Fifth Amendment is best known as “the right to be silent.” This protects you against self-incrimination and double jeopardy, which means that you can’t be tried twice for the same crime.
The Sixth Amendment ensures that these rights are adhered to for criminal defendants:
- The right to legal representation
- The right to a speedy trial
- The right to confront witnesses
Criminal defendants are protected by the Eighth Amendment with the right to the setting of reasonable ball as well as the right not to be subjected to cruel and unusual punishment.
Oregon DUII Example
If you live in or are visiting Oregon, for example, this state refers to DUIs as “driving under the influence of intoxicants,” or DUIIs. If you’ve been arrested for a DUII, DMV.org, states that you may face penalties from the Driver and Motor Vehicle Service Division (DMV) that are separate from the courts. If you refuse or fail a chemical test, for instance, your license can be suspended by the DMV.
There are other penalties, of course, which a defense attorney can explain in detail. Furthermore, depending on the outcome of a case, jail time and other penalties may apply. If convicted, the costs may amount to $20,000 or more.
If you want to know what to do when you are charged with DUI, it’s important to contact a criminal defense firm as soon as possible. Remember that one of the most important tips for hiring a criminal defense attorney is to choose one with experience in the type of situation that you are facing.
