What Are Criminal Charges
Chances are that you may encounter the criminal defense system at some time in your life. Whether you are a victim, alleged perpetrator, or another party in a criminal case, you may need to hire a criminal attorney. Criminal defense attorneys have a specific focus in the area of criminal law and handle a wide range of criminal matters, both small and large.
If you are charged with a crime, it’s a good idea to schedule a consultation with a criminal attorney. The aid of a lawyer can significantly increase your chances of minimizing your jail time or financial penalty. With financial ruin or your freedom on the line, you can’t afford to go without qualified legal representation. Call a lawyer today.
Criminal defense lawyers have experience offering aggressive criminal defense representation to clients charged with crimes such as these:
- Drug crimes
- DUI
- Domestic violence
- Probation violations
- Theft and burglary crimes
- Federal crimes
- Sex crimes
- Violent crimes
- White collar crimes
- Prostitution
- Public intoxication
- Assault
- Disorderly conduct
- Trespass
- Vandalism
- Reckless driving
- Murder
- Rape
- Kidnapping
- Treason
- Arson
- Various forms of fraud
- Grand larceny or grand theft
Since this is not an all-inclusive list, you may want to consult with a criminal lawyer even if your matter isn’t listed here. Many times these may be quite serious criminal offenses with punishments that can range from hefty fines to lengthy incarcerations.
Misdemeanors and Felonies
Criminal lawyers will represent you if you are charged with either a misdemeanor or a felony. Misdemeanors are generally less severe charges which may result in short incarceration or a fine. Felonies are typically more severe offenses than misdemeanors, and if you are found guilty of one, you may end up in prison for a year or more and possibly even face the death penalty.
Both felonies and misdemeanors can lead to prison sentences, so you should consult a lawyer as soon as possible if you are charged with either of them.
What Should I Expect From Working with a Criminal Lawyer?
A criminal defense lawyer aims to prove your innocence or at least lessen your sentence. In some instances, an attorney may advise you to settle out of court, which can usually yield a shorter or easier sentence. This is especially true in cases that case may be impossible to win. If you do end up in court facing criminal charges, your defense lawyer may attempt to:
- Prove your innocence
- Lower the severity of the charge, i.e., from a felony to a misdemeanor
- Get you a shorter sentence
- Get you placed in a better facility
- Advocate for fines or community service instead of jail time
A qualified criminal defense lawyer should understand the way courts work. A criminal defense attorney can give you an honest assessment and evaluation of your case. Your lawyer should be experienced in strategies and tactics that can bring your case to its optimal resolution. An attorney with a balance of creativity and tenacity goes a long way toward protecting and preserving your rights and best interests.