A criminal conviction can change your life in an instant. Whether you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence, theft, or another crime, your freedom and future are at stake. This is when a criminal defense attorney becomes essential. In a system where it feels like everyone is up against you, a defense lawyer can protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome for your case. Specifically, here are seven ways a criminal defense attorney can help you:
1.Make full use of discovery to build a strong defense.
An experienced criminal defense attorney will investigate your case to uncover every possible avenue of acquittal. This may include finding and hiring expert witnesses, obtaining surveillance video and documents, or questioning the police.
2.Advise you of your rights.
The legal system is filled with nuances and intricacies that make defending yourself in a criminal trial nearly impossible. A criminal defense attorney with experience practicing law in court can point out any laws and regulations that protect your rights.
3.Guide your case through the local justice system.
An experienced San Diego criminal lawyer will know the ins and outs of the local courts and be familiar with the specific rules, judges, and prosecution. These insights are crucial for building a successful defense strategy.
4.Keep you updated on important details of your case.
With a defense lawyer on your side, you will always have someone you can trust to give you insights on how the trial is going and what is likely to happen next. These reality checks are helpful when deciding whether or not to accept a plea bargain.
5.Negotiate a plea bargain with prosecutors.
Prosecutors are often unwilling to negotiate with defendants who represent themselves. They will, however, talk to your defense attorney to reduce your sentence if you agree to plead guilty to a lesser charge.
6.Fight for your rights during trial.
As a defendant, you’re probably fearful of facing a judge and being questioned by the prosecution at your trial. A criminal lawyer will be by your side during this difficult time and try to convince the jury that the prosecution has failed to meet its burden of proof.
7.Help clean up your permanent record.
If you are found guilty or plead guilty to a lesser charge, a defense lawyer may be able to help you get a fresh start by expunging your conviction. This would make your criminal record clean when applying for jobs or schools in the future.
Don’t wait to contact a San Diego criminal lawyer
If you’ve been charged with a crime and are facing hefty fines or prison time, call a defense lawyer as quickly as possible. San Diego criminal lawyer Elliott Kanter has three decades of legal experience and a strong record of successfully defending clients charged with misdemeanors and felonies ranging from minor traffic violations to more serious crimes. The sooner you call Elliott to represent you, the sooner he can begin evaluating the evidence of your case and building an aggressive defense strategy to fight for your freedom. Call today.