When an individual is facing criminal defense charges, one of the biggest questions is whether or not to hire a criminal defense attorney. Many might second guess the necessity of hiring a criminal defense lawyer due to the potential costs and fees associated with obtaining counsel; however, it is always recommended that you seek representation, as your sentencing may result in life-altering costs if not. If you recently fell into legal trouble and the following circumstances apply, it is very important that you hire a criminal defense attorney:
The Police Want to Question You
If you have been implicated in a crime in any way, you may be contacted by the police in regards to questioning. Dealing with a criminal implication and appropriately handling questioning is something a criminal defense attorney is trained to do. They will give you the necessary advice to make sure you are protected and understand that your responses can implicate you further. The most important thing you will hear is not to speak to anyone without a lawyer present as you may inadvertently expose information that can be linked back to the crime and somehow position you as guilty. It is well within your rights to have an attorney present whenever you are speaking with the authorities. A good criminal defense attorney will ensure that you do not say something that will get you into further trouble.
You Have Been Charged With a Crime
Hiring a criminal defense attorney is critical if you have been charged with a crime. Investigators and prosecutors will likely want to speak with you privately when this occurs, but the authorities can not restrict you from obtaining counsel. It is well within your rights to have a defense attorney present. Hiring a criminal defense lawyer once you have been charged with a crime will ensure that you don’t implicate yourself. Certain situations where an attorney can protect you include when authorities are conducting a lineup or have a victim look at photos. This process can be difficult to handle alone and a defense attorney will ensure that it is done in an appropriate manner.
Your Case Involves a Constitutional Issue
If your constitutional rights were violated during the investigation of the case, a defense attorney can ensure that you are protected and receive the justice you were robbed of. This could include being searched without a proper warrant or probable cause not being established. A good criminal defense lawyer will have the expertise to make a solid argument in court whereas if you were to defend yourself, you may be further taken advantage of. A defense attorney knows how to look at the evidence and build a case in such a way that evidence collected may become inadmissible in court. This could potentially result in the prosecution lacking necessary evidence to proceed with a case.
You are Deciding Whether or Not to Go to Trial
If you are considering going to trial to defend yourself, it is best that you consult with a defense attorney first. Your lawyer will discuss all of your options and provide an expert recommendation about whether or not to accept a plea deal. Assessing the strengths and weaknesses of your case, they will be able to guide you through the potential results and determine the likelihood that it will end in your favor. A criminal defense lawyer can help you make your decision by informing you of the consequences based on what the sentence may be. Similarly, if you are pleading guilty, an attorney can advise you on those consequences, including possibly being denied future employment.
You Have Been Offered a Plea Deal
If the prosecutor offers you a plea deal to avoid going to trial, you should hire an attorney to determine if this is the best decision for you. Sometimes, this happens before a criminal defense attorney is obtained in order to close the case and settle the crime. An attorney can analyze the offer to see if it is in your best interest to accept and can even sometimes negotiate with the prosecutor to get you a better deal.
Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney in Mississippi & Texas | Wilson Law Firm
Whether you have been charged with a crime, implicated in a crime, or simply are asked to be questioned by the police, you should have a defense attorney on your side. Wilson Law Firm is the criminal defense lawyer to call in Mississippi or Texas to ensure that your rights are being protected in all circumstances. Do not accidentally implicate yourself. If you find yourself involved in a criminal case, make sure you have Wilson Law Firm on your side. Contact us today at 228-436-6391 or legal@wilsonattorney.com.