Facing criminal accusations is a frightening experience for just about everyone. This is definitely the case of the charges in question relate to a felony offense. Conviction of a felony generally carries a sentence of at least one year in prison. Unfortunately, there are far too many individuals who fail to grasp the urgency of contacting a criminal defense attorney immediately after becoming aware that they are suspected of involvement in a crime. The truth is that there are many instance in which early intervention by a defense lawyer can mean the difference between being charged and emerging unscathed.
Having an attorney on your side as rapidly as possible once you discover you may face criminal allegations offers a number of benefits. First, an arrest can happen even if you have not been charged with an offense. This is the case in an array of scenarios, and having experienced guidance available is critical.
Regardless of whether formal charges have been lodged, it is essential to secure legal representation promptly in order to safeguard your rights. Most laypeople lack the training to spot actual violations of their rights, but an attorney can do so right away. A lawyer will be able to review the facts and ascertain whether you have been afforded the processes to which you are entitled.
Should an arrest already have taken place, your attorney will review the stated probable cause underlying your case, and he or she may be able to swiftly challenge those assertions in order to secure your release. If this is not feasible, your attorney will seek bail or a reduction of the amount already set forth as a condition of release. Following arraignment, your legal counsel will explore the possibility of negotiating a plea deal. He or she will provide you with sufficient information about the prosecutor’s case and evidence against you so that you may make an appropriate decision as to how things should move forward.
Aligning with a criminal defense lawyer at the earliest possible stages will increase the chances that your case will proceed to trial at all, or if it does, it will afford sufficient time to prepare persuasive counterarguments. Your chances of achieving an agreeable resolution are much better if there is a savvy attorney on your side. Delaying the task of securing legal representation can seriously hinder your likelihood of success. Once a case has proceeded to a significant degree, it may be too late for a retained lawyer to make much headway in crafting a defense.
As such, it is incumbent upon everyone suspected of a crime or formally charged with an offense to waste no time in finding a defense attorney who is prepared to zealously advocate on their behalf.