If you have been charged with a crime, you'll have to face the criminal justice system. Prosecutors are mandated to fight crime and dispense justice, and they'll use their experience to work against you if you're arrested. The good news is that you don't have to go down this road on your own. A criminal defense lawyer understands the prosecution's language and can create strategies to help you avoid hefty fines and prison time. Here are ways that these attorneys will protect your interests.
Conducting Investigations
When the police investigate a crime scene, their goal is to obtain evidence that prosecutors will use against you in the court of law. You don't want this to be the only evidence being presented because it may be biased and land you in more trouble. Luckily, a criminal lawyer can conduct a detailed investigation at the scene to build a solid case in your favor. They will cross-examine witnesses and collect and review pieces of evidence gathered from the scene. This will help them to challenge any faulty evidence presented against you in court. Through their detailed analyses, they'll also identify discrepancies and loopholes that might raise any doubt to weaken the prosecutor's case against you, making it easier for your case to be dropped.
Handling Negotiations
If you've unfortunately lost the battle to the prosecutors, you might be eligible for a sentencing program. Criminal lawyers understand the types of alternative programs available and know the appropriate time to propose them to the judge or the prosecutor. These sentencing options are often lighter and can keep you from serving many years in prison. If you're sentenced to serve a jail term, your lawyer can negotiate with the prosecutor or judge about the terms of your sentencing. Since they know all the rules and regulations, they'll recommend that you be subjected to other options such as community service, therapy, or house arrest instead of prison time.
Developing Defense Theories
When you're in prison, it's crucial that you defend yourself against accusations. If your evidence is weak, a lawyer will help you develop a defense theory. They'll identify and explain the most important facts, such as having an alibi and acting in self-defense. These theory formulations will give you a good chance of getting a favorable verdict.
Being charged with a crime is not a pleasant experience. However, you can get through this ordeal with the help of a criminal attorney. If you hire them, they'll try to build the strongest case possible, reduce your sentence, or get you acquitted.
Share