Facing criminal charges can be an overwhelming experience, especially if prison time is a possibility. That's why it’s in your best interests to find legal help as soon as possible if you’re involved in a criminal case. This section offers an overview of the legal resources available to you, the process of obtaining and working with an attorney, and how a criminal lawyer can help you with your case. You'll find articles and information on criminal defense strategies, obtaining a court-appointed attorney, what to look for in a criminal defense attorney, and the information and documents your attorney will need to best prepare your case. If you are a victim, there's also a section dedicated specifically to crime prevention resources and other related matters.
Criminal Defense Strategies
Every criminal defense will be different based upon the details of the case. Remember, it is always important to be honest with your attorney. Generally speaking, most defenses will fall into one of three categories: denial, admission and confession.
If the defendant denies, he or she will claim they are completely innocent. Such defenses utilize alibis and the fact that a jury must be beyond a reasonable doubt to convict a defendant.
If the defendant can also admit that some facts cited by the prosecution are true, but that the outcome is different then what the prosecution believes. For example, the defendant can admit he was at the scene of the crime, but that someone else committed the act.
Then there is "the confession." The defendant admits to guilt, but there may be mitigating factors which might lessen the sentence. Insanity is an example of such defenses.
Crime Prevention Resources
Crime prevention means being aware of your environment and remaining alert to situations that could make you vulnerable to crime. This section will help you find ways to utilize common sense behavior such as how to protect yourself and your property, reporting a crime or emergency, what to do if you are a witness to a crime and how to proceed if you have been victimized.
Getting Legal Help
Whether you are a defendant or a victim, hiring a criminal lawyer can be a daunting task---especially if this is your first time seeking legal advice.
Any person who is facing a criminal charge, no matter how minor, will benefit from consulting a competent criminal defense lawyer. Even if the lawyer is not retained to provide representation in court, a consultation will help a criminal defendant understand the nature of the charges filed, available defenses, what plea bargains are likely to be offered, and what is likely to happen in the event of conviction.
Additionally, crime victims often are asked to testify in court or make a statement under oath in order to help prosecutors convict the perpetrator, and occasionally may receive restitution. Additionally, victims may claim monetary damages in civil court. But crime victims may also require assistance outside of the justice system, such as counseling; shelter; and other such needs. Don't hesitate to contact a criminal defense lawyer in your area today.
