Provide defendants with a reality check, a knowledgeable, objective
perspective on their situation and what is likely to happen should their
case go to trial. This perspective is vital for defendants trying to
decide whether to accept a prosecutor's offered "plea bargain".
Be familiar with important criminal law rules that may be hidden away
in court interpretations of federal and state constitutions.
Be familiar with local court customs and procedures that aren't written
down anywhere (for example, a defense lawyer may know which
prosecutor has the "real" authority to settle a case, and what kinds of
arguments are likely to appeal to that prosecutor).
Negotiate with prosecutors, often arranging for reduced charges and
lesser sentencing.
Formulate sentencing programs tailored to a client's specific needs,
often helping defendants avoid future brushes with the criminal justice
system.
Understand the possible "hidden costs" of pleading guilty which a self-
represented person might never think about.
Spend crucial time on your case.
Gather information from prosecution witnesses.
Hire and manage investigators, who may be able to believably
impeach (contradict) prosecution witnesses who embellish or change
their stories at trial.
When people are accused of a crime, they face the possibility of going to jail. When faced with criminal charges, trying
to find the right lawyer, quickly, may feel overwhelming.
People who have been recently arrested need to talk to a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. The most urgent
priority is often getting a lawyer to help arrange release and provide some information about what's to come in the days
ahead.
Criminal defense lawyers do so much more than simply question
witnesses in court. Criminal defense lawyers will:
Community Control Violations
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Driver's License Offenses
Seal and Expunge Criminal Records
Tax Law Violations (Federal)
In Custody Consultation/Evaluation
Battery Law Enforcement Officer (LEO)