It may not be today. It may not be tomorrow. It may never happen to you. But if one day, God forbid, you are charged with a crime, having a criminal defense lawyer in your contacts could be the difference between freedom and prison, or a conviction and an acquittal.
When charged with a crime, it can seem like there is no way out. The future may look hopeless, and the only thing you can hope for is that maybe, just maybe, it will go your way. You might think you have a chance for a successful outcome of your case.
Yet, your chances of a successful outcome are 99% better with a criminal defense lawyer representing you – a criminal defense lawyer with the knowledge and know-how to defend your case.
A criminal defense lawyer is invaluable for anyone charged with a crime. They are experienced in litigating cases in court and can help you navigate the complex legal system.
This blog article will cover what to expect when you have a criminal defense lawyer and outline some key points to consider when selecting one to represent you.
Four Things To Know About Being Arrested
The experience of being arrested can be terrifying and confusing. You may not know what to do or where to turn for help.
1. Get In Touch With A Criminal Defense Lawyer Asap.
Don’t wait to hear from your lawyer about your case. Your lawyer will be able to provide you with support and resources during this difficult time.
2. Know Your Rights.
Be aware of your rights under the law, and stick to them. Do not provide any information that could get you into more trouble, such as your name or address.
3. Stay Calm And Polite.
Always stay calm during questioning – even if you feel scared or cornered. Act like a confident person who knows his rights and is prepared to fight for them.
4. Protect Yourself Legally And Physically.
If you are facing criminal charges, take measures to protect yourself legally and physically – this includes getting copies of all documents related to your case, hiring an attorney, and getting travel documents if you are taken away from home or forced to travel
What is a warrant?
A warrant of arrest is an order from a magistrate directing them to take the accused, who will be dealt with according to law.
What is the difference between a Summons vs. Subpoena?
If someone has been charged with a crime, a summons would mark the beginning of the case. The person who was charged with it would have to show up for their trial within a certain amount of days. If they don’t, then a subpoena could be issued after the deadline, requiring them to provide evidence that is important in their case.
What is an arraignment?
The arraignment is a formal process designed to ensure the protection of the defendant’s rights. Often, the first time a defendant sees a judge in their case can be confusing.
At an arraignment, the judge will read the charges against the defendant. The defendant will have to decide whether they want an attorney or not.
The defendant will be asked to plead guilty or not guilty.
The plea of no contest is an option that means not admitting that they committed a crime, but they say they are willing to accept a conviction.
Finally, the judge will then make a decision or will review the decision about bail. The defendant may be released on their own recognizance or may be told to post a certain amount of bail and we’ll give you more information about the upcoming court dates.
Types Of Arrest
When you have a criminal defense lawyer representing you, there are a variety of different types of arrests that could happen.
One type of arrest is when law enforcement officers arrest without a warrant. Under the Fourth Amendment of the United States Constitution, all Americans have the right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures. Therefore, law enforcement officers must have a warrant from a judge to make an arrest.
If arrested without a warrant, your lawyer may be able to get the arrest dismissed or reduced in severity. The lawyer may also be able to contact you, released on bail. However, when released on bail, you will need to return to court for your arraignment.
Another type of arrest is when law enforcement officers arrest after obtaining a warrant from a judge. When law enforcement officers arrest after receiving a warrant, they act within the scope of their job. They are allowed to make the arrest and exercise any legal powers they have with the arrest warrant.
If you have a bench warrant out for your arrest, you must find a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. A bench warrant is an order from a judge to law enforcement to bring someone in for questioning. If arrested while the warrant is active, the person named in the warrant could be held in custody until resolved.
After that, a warrant will expire, and the police cannot take someone into custody without a new court order.
Legal Matters Are Not Always Clear-cut.
There are many legal matters when you have a criminal defense lawyer representing you. Unfortunately, this can create confusion and uncertainty about what to expect during your case. This section will discuss some of the most common legal issues that a criminal defense lawyer may encounter while representing their client.
First and foremost, a criminal defense lawyer must always protect their client’s rights.
They are mandated to do everything they can to ensure that the client receives the best possible outcome in court. They will also work diligently to ensure that their client stays informed of their legal options and the potential consequences of each decision.
A criminal defense lawyer is also responsible for seeking justice for their client. While it is necessary to maintain an objective perspective during your case, it is also important to advocate for your client when necessary.
An excellent criminal defense lawyer can identify when it is appropriate to take a tougher stance with the prosecution or government officials and help guide their client through these tough decisions.
Court Appearances Matter
When you go to court, the appearance of your lawyer can make all the difference. If you have a criminal defense lawyer representing you, you can expect the following:
-Your lawyer will be there for every hearing and will do everything in their power to ensure you have a fair trial.
-Your lawyer will work hard to obtain a favorable outcome for you.
-If you are found guilty, your lawyer will do everything in their power to reduce the sentence or even get you released from prison.
What A Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do
If charged with a crime, the last thing you need to worry about is the legal process. However, if you are fortunate enough to have a criminal defense lawyer on your side, they can handle the entire process for you.
A criminal defense lawyer can provide you with legal representation in court, help negotiate a plea bargain and work to get the charges against you dropped or reduced.
Here are a few of the things that a criminal defense lawyer can do for you:
– Provide legal representation in court
– Negotiate a plea bargain with prosecutors
– Work to get charges against you dropped or reduced
– Help get your record expunged
When you have a criminal defense lawyer representing you, it is essential to know that many case outcomes are possible. For example, depending on the specific facts of your case, your lawyer may be able to get you a reduced sentence, an acquittal, or a settlement that will allow you to avoid prison time.
However, no matter the outcome, always remember that you are solely responsible for your actions and should not rely on the legal system to protect you.
Conclusion
When charged with a crime, it can feel like the world is against you. You might feel like there is no hope.
However, when you have a criminal defense lawyer by your side, you and your lawyer are against the world. They will work tirelessly to get your charges reduced or dismissed and do everything in their power to protect your rights.
So if you are facing criminal charges, don’t hesitate to contact an attorney as soon as possible.
Even if you believe that you didn’t do anything wrong, a criminal defense attorney can help you get bail set and negotiate with the police if necessary. If you are found guilty, a criminal defense lawyer can work to reduce or even get the conviction overturned.
If you’ve been charged with a crime the chance of a successful case depends on the decisions you make right now.
Bad things happen to good people. – Scott E. Edgett, Founding Attorney, Edgett Law Firm
Edgett Law Firm
Attorney Scott Edgett has dedicated his life to becoming a lawyer with the goal of assisting those who need it most. He has lived by the motto “bad things happen to good people” and this experience shows in his work.
Scott E. Edgett has extensive experience in dealing with the criminal justice system. As a founding attorney at the Edgett Law Firm in Plano and Prosper Texas, he and his team of defense attorneys are dedic