Are you (or someone you know) facing criminal charges?
Regardless of your guilt or innocence, it’s best to contact a criminal defence lawyer to represent you. Posting bail, filing paperwork, and talking to the police can be overwhelming when added to the stress of being accused of criminal activity.
While some accused represent themselves in court, your chances of victory are significantly greater when you are represented by a criminal lawyer. Remember, there’s a long list of procedures that need to be followed when you go to court. That’s why it’s vital that you hire an experienced professional.
Here, we present several reasons why hiring a criminal defence lawyer is the best way to be represented in court.
Why Consider Hiring a Criminal Defence Lawyer? (Top 6 Reasons)
Are you skeptical about your need for a criminal defence lawyer? These reasons will help you make an informed decision.
1. They Offer Unbiased Advice
Apart from having knowledge of your province’s laws, an experienced criminal defence lawyer can:
- Evaluate your charges;
- Prepare strategies;
- Negotiate a plea bargain or reduction in charges;
- Hopefully have the case against you dismissed.
Your lawyer is trained to offer a dispassionate evaluation of your case, which can help you make rational decisions in a calm manner.
2. They Reduce Your Risk
Many people don’t hire a criminal defence lawyer because they think it’s too expensive. But not having expert representation can have catastrophic consequences, such as:
- Being found guilty when you’re not.
- Being incorrectly or falsely charged.
- Being wrongfully sent to prison.
- Having your DNA placed on a national or provincial police database.
- Being fired from your job.
- Being at a disadvantage when applying for a job because you have to disclose your criminal record.
A professional criminal lawyer can help you avoid such outcomes. When the stakes are high, the amount you pay will be worth it. Remember, scheduling an appointment with a criminal defence lawyer is obligation-free.
3. They Know the Law
The right criminal defence lawyer knows how the court system functions and has worked on cases like yours. They can draw on their experience and offer advice to help you make the right decisions regarding your circumstances.
Moreover, your lawyer will know how to evaluate the evidence against you and use their knowledge to try to exonerate you. They will also look for inconsistencies in the law and evidence to your advantage.
4. They Have Existing Relationship with Prosecutors
This may sound strange since prosecutors and defence lawyers are opponents in court, but most have good relationships with each other. This makes the legal process adversarial but cordial, which may not be the case should you (a legal amateur) choose to represent yourself.
5. They Know How to Settle
An experienced criminal defence lawyer understands your choices and chooses the most suitable one based on your charges. They can also negotiate potentially favourable options such as a reduction or dismissal of said charges.
Other options worth considering include deciding if you should go to trial or accept a deal. Your lawyer is aware of the potential repercussions of your decisions and can review possible outcomes in case you are convicted.
6. They Help You to Testify
Your testimony may contradict that of other witnesses. A criminal defence lawyer can benefit your
case by preparing you to testify truthfully and prepare you to be cross
examined by the crown.
If you’re facing legal charges, there are several reasons why you should consider hiring a criminal defence lawyer. They can help you make the most of your (bad) situation, one which can have a profound impact on both your professional and personal life.