When facing legal trouble, some people wilt under pressure. In contrast, others go it alone – a dangerous move as the legal system is complicated. And given that your rights could be on the line, it pays to partner with a skillful defense attorney.
Accordingly, if you’re in such a predicament, you may team up with the professionals at Stroleny Law, P.A. – the firm’s client-centered approach has endeared them to many clients in Florida. Plus, you can expect a former state prosecutor to handle your case – a promise many firms can’t make.
Well then, why should you hire a defense attorney? The justifications below offer answers.
1. Access to Resources
Most reputable criminal defense firms have the resources and personnel to fight for your rights in court. A lot goes into ensuring proper legal representation. For instance, your defense lawyer gathers evidence, questions witnesses, prepares legal documents, and crafts a strategy (including a fallback plan should the situation demand) to win your case. Likewise, they handle the paperwork and ensure proper filing so you don’t make costly mistakes.
Moreover, they may hire an investigator to look into your case or a forensic specialist to interpret evidence in DNA-related cases. Your defense lawyer may also rely on expert witnesses with specialized knowledge on particular aspects of your trial.
Thus, a team of experts provides better representation than a single attorney. Plus, by delegating some tasks, your lawyer can handle various aspects of your case efficiently.
2. Negotiating a Deal
Not every case goes to trial – some prosecutors and defense lawyers try to settle the dispute out of court. An attorney is key during such negotiations, haggling for a better deal depending on the circumstances.
For example, your lawyer can prove your innocence if you face a wrongful accusation. In other cases, you may get a plea deal, which typically implies a reduced charge or a lighter sentence. Hence, an attorney can seek a postponement of the sentence or push for probation rather than jail time.
3. Saving Money and Time
Dealing with a criminal charge entails long hours and costly resources. Often, an attorney has to spend days or weeks handling your case. By having them in your corner, you don’t need to sweat all the details. Thus, a competent defense lawyer can save you time and money by doing the following:
- Following up on your case
- Foreseeing challenges that may arise and addressing them promptly
- Avoiding costly mistakes during the trial
- Expediting the process so you can resume your daily activities
- Making the right legal arguments to clear your name
- Preempting charges and preventing the case from going to trial
Doing all these single-handedly could mean skipping work or neglecting other responsibilities. And with potential punitive or hefty court fees, it pays to have a professional in your corner who can help you avoid such costs. They can also get your charges dropped or sentence reduced.
4. Knowledge of the Legal System
Imagine diving into a pool’s deep end without swimming knowledge. How would that end? Well, the same applies to the legal system – it’s a mystery to most people, and all you may do is research the law. Even so, would you know how to interpret statutes, navigate criminal procedures, evaluate precedent cases, or make procedural motions?
Essentially, a seasoned attorney understands the intricacies of the legal system (inside out). For instance, they know what to expect in a courtroom, how different judges may handle your case, the strategies most likely to succeed when applied to particular cases, and more.
Such a lawyer can also evaluate the facts about your case, build a solid defense, establish loopholes in your complainant’s arguments, and determine admissible evidence. In other words, they do the legwork and help you navigate the complex legal system.
5. Advocate for Your Rights
Defense attorneys also fight to protect your rights while handling your case. Most prosecutors are eager to win a conviction. Plus, they can use your words, testimony, or actions against you. They may also exploit the law to win the case.
Fortunately, a defense lawyer can step in and argue on your behalf. Case in point, they may challenge the evidence presented by an overzealous prosecutor, question their motives, prevent law enforcers from taking advantage of you while investigating the case, or push for a mistrial. Plus, their understanding of the tactics used by the other side allows them to anticipate and prepare a rebuttal.
Likewise, they do everything in their power to prove your innocence. This may entail advising you on the appropriate action in a particular situation. Or, if the evidence against you is strong, they may plead your case.
To safeguard your interests, it’s advisable to hire a qualified defense attorney when facing a criminal charge. By so doing, you can enjoy the benefits above and possibly dodge undeserved punishment.
