3 Reasons You Need A Criminal Law Attorney Before The Courtroom
Being charged with a criminal offense can really turn your life upside down. If you find yourself in this situation, it's important that you hire a criminal law attorney to represent you as soon as possible. Don't wait until your court date or hearing is fast approaching to begin researching local lawyers. Here are three ways that a criminal law attorney can help you before you even get to the courtroom.
Case Dismissed
If you believe the charges against you are bogus and have evidence to back it up, a good attorney may be able to get your case thrown out before you even have to set foot in a courtroom. Your lawyer may be able to contact the prosecuting attorney or contact the judge to request an audience ahead of the trial or hearing. If your evidence makes things obvious enough, you may be able to get the case tossed and your name restored without anyone ever seeing you walk into court.
Charges Reduced
If you can't get the case completely dismissed, you still may be able to get at least some charges reduced or thrown out. Getting tried for a case in which you are accused of doing something in the second or third degree will likely result in a lesser punishment than if you were charged in the first degree. A lawyer with connections to local prosecutors may be able to privately reach out and make your case about why certain charges are not likely to hold up in court. If you do make it to the courtroom, you'll be prepared on day one to make that same case to the judge.
Get a Better Plea Bargain
In some situations, it might be better to just admit defeat and accept the consequences. But even then, having a lawyer by your side could prove quite useful. You may be able to reach out to the prosecutor and ask for a plea deal before you even make it to court. The plea bargain could result in less jail time or reduce your punishment in another way. The best time to try and get a plea bargain is before the court proceedings actually begin, because by then the prosecution will likely not be interested in what you have to say.
Contact a local criminal law attorney immediately if you are arrested. With a little luck, you might be able to reduce your charges or get a plea deal before you even set foot inside a courtroom