What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
A criminal defense lawyer serves arguably the most important role in our justice system. These attorneys serve as advocates for individuals that have been accused of a crime. This job can be challenging, especially in cases where the court of public opinion has already turned against the accused.
However, everyone deserves representation during a criminal case. Strong advocacy by a criminal defense attorney not only protects the rights of the accused but also ensures that the justice system is working the way it was intended.
If you are facing criminal charges, it is vital that you speak to an attorney as soon as possible. A skilled criminal defense lawyer could be the difference between an acquittal and a conviction in your case. To discuss your options, contact the Minnesota criminal defense attorneys at Gerald Miller today.
Advise Clients
The advice from a criminal lawyer is valuable at every stage of the process. This advice is especially crucial early on. An attorney could advise a client against speaking with police or prosecutors either before or after their arrest. By not speaking with police, you could be putting yourself in a position to avoid criminal charges or even see your charges dismissed.
A lawyer could also help you understand what to expect during a criminal proceeding. For first-time offenders, the process of a criminal case could be foreign. An attorney can explain what to expect from each phase of the case, from arraignment through trial.
Your criminal defense lawyer can also advise you on the severity of your charges and the possibility of a conviction. By relying on their skill and experience, they can prepare you for a worst-case scenario while assisting you with obtaining a favorable outcome to your case.
Appear on a Client’s Behalf
One of the major benefits of legal representation during a criminal proceeding is the ability to have your criminal defense attorney appear on your behalf. While you must appear for trial, you can avoid appearing for many preliminary hearings. For these hearings, your lawyer can appear on your behalf.
Their appearance can provide a variety of benefits. First and foremost, you will not have to make arrangements at work to attend the hearing. Many employers are unwilling to allow employees to miss work for personal reasons like court appearances. Having an attorney represent you could ensure you maintain your employment through this difficult process.
Pursue Reasonable Bail
One of the first steps a criminal defense lawyer could take on your behalf is pursuing reasonable bail or even release from jail without any bail requirements. At your arraignment hearing, the court will determine what conditions you must meet in order to be released from jail pending trial. This often includes paying a specific amount of money into the court to ensure that you return for your scheduled court appearances.
Your attorney can make the case to the court that bail should be lowered. In some cases, they might be able to convince the court that requiring any bail at all is unreasonable or unnecessary. Through their efforts, you could remain out of jail during the entirety of your case pending trial.
Negotiate Plea Bargains
For many people, a negotiated plea is a viable resolution to your case. Not every plea offer from the state will be worth considering, however. A lawyer can review your case and advise you on whether an offer is worth considering. In some cases, your best option might be to make a counteroffer. In other situations, your criminal defense attorney may advise you to avoid a plea and take your case to trial.
Defend the Accused at Trial
Winning or losing at trial can depend in part on your choice of a defense attorney. Your lawyer serves several important roles at trial, including selecting a jury, making objections to evidence, and questioning witnesses.
Reach Out to a Minnesota Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
A defense attorney will play a role in every aspect of your trial. From the day you have arrested to the moment a jury comes back with a verdict, your criminal defense lawyer can serve a variety of roles on your behalf.
If you have questions about what a defense attorney can do for you, the lawyers of Gerald Miller have answers. Call right away to schedule a free consultation with a Minnesota criminal defense attorney.
