Imagine your life was ruined by someone else’s carelessness or deliberate act. You may have lost time away from work, spent thousands of dollars on medical bills and rehabilitation, and used up years of emotional energy. A criminal defense attorney like Aric Cramer, Attorney at Law, offers you the opportunity and assurance to gain back some of what you lost.
If you’ve been arrested, are under investigation, or have been charged with a crime, hiring a criminal defense attorney might be the best option to protect your constitutional rights. If this is something that you’re thinking about hiring a criminal defense attorney for then, it can help to know what they do.
Who is a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
A criminal defense lawyer is also known as a defense attorney or criminal defense counsel. They represent clients who have been arrested and faced with prosecution for committing a crime. The job of these attorneys is not only to defend the client against allegations of wrongful doing but also to protect their constitutional rights.
These attorneys are also known as public defenders. It happens because they are paid for by the state and represent the interests of the public. Some criminal defense lawyers work for themselves, while others work in a private law firm, corporation, or government agency. There is also a subset of lawyers called criminal defense specialists, who focus on one aspect of criminal law, such as juvenile court or white-collar crime.
The duties of criminal defense attorneys vary depending on their area of practice. The American Bar Association (ABA) states that all lawyers should provide the “zealous advocacy” of their client’s interests while maintaining professional integrity.
A criminal defense attorney spends time investigating the charges brought against clients to determine if they can be dismissed and represents clients in court. Criminal defense attorneys may also conduct research or gather evidence to prove that their client’s actions were not unlawful, plea bargain with prosecutors, and prepare witnesses for trial.
A criminal defense lawyer main tasks include:
- Providing legal defense:
A criminal defense lawyer may represent their clients in court or offer legal counsel and advice. Either way, they will actively defend their clients’ rights. A criminal defense lawyer fights for their client during the trial. They examine witnesses, cross-examines the state’s witnesses, and try to convince the jury that the prosecution has failed to meet its burden of proof
- Interpreting laws:
A criminal defense attorney may be responsible for interpreting the laws of their state and helping their clients do the same. In some states, lawyers must take continuing education classes to remain up-to-date on state laws.
- Negotiating a plea deal:
A criminal defense attorney may negotiate a plea deal on behalf of their clients if the person has been arrested or charged with a crime. It can be done during initial questioning, before charges are filed against the person, or after charges have been filed against them.
- Analyze evidence against you:
Before defending you in court, your criminal defense attorney needs to analyze the evidence against you to identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. This may involve requesting copies of police reports, witness statements, and physical evidence.
- Investigate witnesses and police:
Your criminal defense attorney will need to investigate witnesses and police officers involved in your case. This can include interviewing witnesses, obtaining witness statements, and reviewing police reports for errors or inconsistencies.
- Inform you of all possible defenses:
During this stage, your criminal defense attorney informs you of all possible defenses and advises on the best options available to you. This may include arranging for expert witnesses, looking for further evidence, and more.
An experienced criminal defense lawyer knows the court system, the law, and the best way to defend you. They can help you protect your rights and your freedom. Trying to navigate the criminal justice system without an attorney is a challenge. You need someone with experience who knows how to find evidence and prove your innocence or guilt based on the facts of your case. Choosing the right criminal defense attorney will significantly increase your chances of mounting a successful defense. Ensure that you visit the legal practices of any lawyer you consider hiring. An in-person interview gives you a better idea of your lawyer’s professionalism by assessing their premises and staff. The right criminal attorney will get the best possible outcome for your case.
