Criminal cases are challenging to navigate and time-consuming. If you are dealing with a criminal case, you may need a criminal defense lawyer to help you understand the legal requirements and the possible outcomes of your case. You should consult a criminal defense lawyer early to prevent you from messing up your defense. However, you can hire a criminal defense lawyer at any point in the process to guide you through your case or represent you in a court of law.
Roles of A Criminal Defense Lawyer
Whether the criminal case is a misdemeanor or a first-degree felony, the court process is usually rigorous, so either way, it’s necessary to have a criminal defense lawyer.
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Pretrial Period
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Advises the Client on Critical Issues
The legal process of a criminal case may start months before the hearing. At this point, the attorney advises the client on what to do and what to avoid. For example, if their client attends an interview, the criminal defense lawyer should advise on which areas to talk about and which ones not to discuss.
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The Criminal Defense Lawyer Gathers Information
The criminal defense lawyer is also involved in gathering evidence and information in support of their client. The lawyer collects documents and other information which might prove the innocence of their client.
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Makes a Request for case Dismissal
A Galveston criminal defense lawyer may also request the judges to dismiss the case if they can prove that there is no enough evidence to implicate their client or the investigation was not as per the requirements of the law. The criminal defense lawyer will advise you on your options.
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Defense Lawyer Bargains for Lesser Charges
The criminal defense lawyer may also bargain with the court to reduce the charges for a lesser sentence. Your attorney will negotiate to reduce criminal charges, reduce potential sentencing or consequences.
The criminal defense attorney may also argue for bail to set the client free before the trial begins.
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Trial Period
If the attorney fails in getting the case settled during the pretrial hearing, then the case proceeds to trial.
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Criminal Defense Attorney Updates You
Your criminal defense attorney will advise you on the possible outcomes of the criminal prosecution and update you on new information as it emerges and what is likely to happen next.
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Attorney Presents Case to the Judge
The attorney presents the case to the judge and prepares documents for the subsequent court sessions. The criminal defense lawyer also comes up with a theme to use throughout the court process.
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The Attorney Assess Strengths and Weaknesses of the Case
The criminal defense lawyer identifies the solid points and the weaknesses of the case and advises his client accordingly.
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Prepares Witnesses
The lawyer also takes time to prepare the witnesses and supports them emotionally. Your attorney will let you know what to expect and how to cope with potential embarrassment and depression that can come from a criminal trial.
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Seeks for an Appeal
If the case turns badly and the attorney feels the court was wrong, with evidence, the criminal defense lawyer may seek an appeal. And the process continues!
Conclusion
Undertaking a criminal case may take time and may also drain you emotionally. The outcome of a criminal case may also be very lethal. Therefore, you must seek a qualified criminal defense lawyer to help you navigate the legal proceedings and help reduce penalties and criminal sentences against you. Don’t start the journey alone; hire a qualified defense attorney to hold your hand and walk with you.