Do I Need a Lawyer If I’m Charged With a Crime?

Do I need a lawyer if I’m charged with a crime? This is often asked by defendants. Most assume that the justice system will work for them, only to find that they are left in the dark. If you are charged with a crime, it is in your best interest to contact a criminal defense attorney.

If you are represented by a lawyer, you may see better legal results than waiting and hoping the system will work for you. While there are no firm statistics out there, those who represent themselves are less than one percent. Defendants know the potential of an attorney.

Reasons to Hire an Attorney

No matter the crime for which you are charged, there are reasons to consider a criminal defense attorney over representing yourself or working with a public defender. These can include:

• Books do not teach you everything. While there are a lot of self-help guides and even law books available, they do not make up for lack of courtroom experience. Books essentially define the law and may even help you identify your rights, but they cannot teach you strategy or help you fully represent yourself.
• Prosecutors know what they are doing. A prosecutor can determine whether or not to file criminal charges. If you have an attorney by your side, you may never go to trial or your attorney may be able to get the charges dismissed. If you are representing yourself, the prosecution is unlikely to negotiate with you, which means you could go to trial for a case that never needed to see the inside of a courtroom.
• Better sentencing. Even if you are guilty, you have a better chance of getting a lighter sentence with the assistance of an attorney. With the exception of minimum mandatory sentences, you could plead down to a lesser sentence and at least avoid lengthy jail times or penalties for harsher charges.
• When you represent yourself, you do not have any emotional support. An attorney knows the stressful situation you are going through and they help you get through those feelings of fear and can put the concerns of yourself and your loved ones to rest.

Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney Today

If you have been arrested or you are being charged with a crime, contact the criminal defense team at the Law Office of Paul J. Donnelly today. We offer no obligation consultations, so call us now to schedule your appointment.

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