A criminal defense attorney is your best option for defense when you have been charged with a crime. From a simple traffic ticket to more serious crimes such as robbery and murder, it is in your best interest to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. A criminal conviction can follow you for the rest of your life having significant consequences. You should never go it alone in a criminal case.
Why You Need A Criminal Defense Attorney
If you are facing a criminal charge, no matter how minor it is, you should consult with an attorney. Even if you decide not to retain the attorney to represent you, a consultation can still help you to:
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Understand the charges
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Find out what defenses are available
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Learn about the possibility for Plea Bargain
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Learn what to do if convicted
What A Criminal Defense Attorney Can Do For You
A criminal defense attorney who is experienced in criminal law can represent you when criminal charges have been filed against you. The attorney will help you with all legal issues related to your case, including identifying key pretrial issues, issuing motions that can improve your situation, possibly getting the charges reduced or even getting the case dismissed. If your case goes to trial, the attorney represents you in court. His objective is to see that you receive a fair trial with a favorable resolution. As an experienced criminal defense attorney, Craig Divine of Divine Law, LLC, can defend you and help to ensure a favorable outcome in your case.
Sources For Finding An Attorney
There are several ways to search for a criminal defense attorney.
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The internet or the local library has a wide variety of resources.
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All states and most major cities have professional organizations for lawyers. Call the organizations near you for referrals, or search their online directories.
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Ask friends or family members for referrals.
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If you have an attorney for a different type of legal representation, ask if they can recommend a criminal defense attorney.
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Go directly to the State Bar Website and search under Certified Criminal Law Specialist in your County. The State Bar Association is the ultimate authority on credibility. Look at the website for your state for a specialization that aligns with your case.
What To Look For In A Criminal Defense Attorney
Selecting a criminal defense attorney who you can trust is critical, and sometimes finding the one who is right for you can be a challenge. Look for an attorney who practices defense of the type of crime you have been charged with, in the type of court that you are being tried in. For example, if you are being prosecuted in a county court for a felony murder, you need an attorney who practices murder law in your state.
Look for qualities in a defense attorney that are important to you. Excellent communication skills will help your lawyer better argue your case. The lawyer’s experience with a specific crime and ethics should be considered. Asking for examples of successful cases handled would be helpful in choosing a lawyer with these qualities.
You should exercise caution when choosing an attorney. Be wary of a lawyer who makes assurances of success in your case up front. An attorney who makes promises before the case even begins is suspect. Review the contract closely before signing anything. Be suspicious of an attorney who requires a large sum of money up-front to handle only the initial proceedings and not all the way through to a jury trial. The lawyer should be open and honest about your case and not make any guarantees. Anything can happen in a jury trial. A good lawyer will provide you with realistic advice and suggestions and communicate with you in an open and respectful manner.
There are many other factors in finding and retaining an attorney. Craig Divine of Divine Law, LLC, is an experienced criminal lawyer who regularly handles criminal cases on both sides of the state line and is completely dedicated to devoting the time and resources required to adequately represent your best interests. Call 816-474-2240 to schedule a free consultation with Craig to discuss how he can best meet your needs for a criminal defense attorney.