ARTICLES

Criminal Defense Information

Criminal Defense

If you've been arrested or accused of a crime you should retain a criminal defense attorney to protect your rights. Individuals who are already on probation or parole for a crime will find it equally important to retain a capable criminal law attorney. Even those accused of lesser crimes like theft or simple assault need legal representation.

Your Criminal Defense Attorney's Strategy

Your criminal defense attorney's job is to protect your rights and ensure your access to a fair trial and resolution. By examining the circumstances surrounding your case and weighing the strength of the evidence against you, your defense lawyer will apply current law, along with previous legal precedent, to your specific situation and use it to devise a solid legal strategy and build the best possible case for acquittal.

Investigation and Pre-Trial

In all cases, a lawyer will investigate the evidence and make decisions as to strategy after consulting with the client. This is done through gathering reports, test results, obtaining witness statements, visiting the scene of the alleged crime, taking depositions, talking with, and retaining where necessary, expert witnesses, etc. Preparing for trial is the best way to obtain a good result, whether by trial or negotiations for a plea to an acceptable charge. Motion work, e.g., motions to suppress, will also play a part in this process.

Trial Work

Trials are the exception to the rule, if for no other reason, the system would collapse under the weight of every case going to trial. This does not mean your case should not go to trial, if necessary. Your trial attorney should have plenty of trial experience in front of both judges and juries.

Appeals

Should the outcome of your trial be less than desirable, your attorney should have the experience needed to find grounds for filing an appeal and continuing to aggressively fight the legal battle on your behalf. Additional fees would apply.