What Exactly Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Do?
When you are facing the prospect of criminal charges, your first step should be to contact a defense attorney. If you have never worked with a criminal defense attorney before, though, then you may be wondering what exactly it is that they do. What distinguishes them from other attorneys? What are the qualities that you should be looking for? What precisely can your attorney do for you? If you understand the role that a criminal defense attorney plays in your case, then you will be better equipped to defend your rights. Here is a brief introduction to everything that a criminal defense attorney does.
Investigating your criminal case.
When you bring your case to your criminal defense attorney, the first thing they will do is to take a close look at your case. This means doing a thorough investigation. They may interview witnesses and other important parties, and they may analyze police reports. They will probably also do a complete review of all of the laws, odes, and statutes that are relevant to your case. Ultimately, your defense attorney needs to have a comprehensive understanding of every aspect of your case. That is the best way for them to provide you with the strong defense you deserve.
Developing a viable legal strategy for you.
Once your criminal defense attorney has obtained all of the information they need about your case, the next step is to decide how best to proceed. It is your attorney’s job to determine the most effective way to present your criminal case before the court. This means that they will need to develop a strategy for your defense. This is by no means a simple task. The more experience your attorney has in the area—and with your type of case—the more likely it is that they will be able to come up with a strong strategy to defend you.
Deciding whether or not to take the case to trial.
In some cases, it will be in a client’s best interest to settle out of court; in other cases, the best way forward is to go to trial. However, most individuals do not have the legal expertise to determine what is most appropriate for their case. This requires knowledge of the law and the local courts, and it also means knowing how to apply that knowledge. After all, every case is different, so the same approach will not work for every client. An experienced criminal defense attorney will have the know how needed to decide what the best option is for your case.
Representing you before the court.
Your criminal defense attorney will also represent you and your interests in court. This may mean performing any number of roles. For instance, your attorney may negotiate a plea bargain on your behalf. They may also write and file appeals for you. If you are offered an appeal by the prosecution, then your attorney can help you determine whether it is in your best interests to accept it. Your attorney may represent you at bail bond hearings, parole or probation hearings, and other important proceedings. In other words, your attorney will provide you with the full spectrum of legal services you need in order to protect your rights.
Arguing your case in the courtroom.
Finally, of course, your criminal defense attorney may appear in court and argue in your defense. This is the most famous part of an attorney’s job, but it forms only one part of the role they play. However, it is still one of the most critical things an attorney can do for you. Your attorney will question prospective jurors and decide whether or not to approve them for your jury. Then, your attorney will present evidence to the court and make arguments on your behalf. They will question witnesses and provide opening and closing statements. If your case makes it to this stage, then it is imperative that you have a criminal defense attorney who has courtroom experience.
If you’re looking for an experienced criminal defense attorney in the Tucson area, then call Janet Altschuler. She is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to provide you with the expert legal services you deserve. She also offers in-jail and in-custody appointments to those who need them. In other words, you can depend on her for the qualified guidance and representation you need. When you are in need of an attorney who will fight hard to protect your rights, call (520) 247-1789 today for a free consultation.