Many criminal cases are minor and carry minor penalties such as probation or a fine. If you have been charged with a low-level misdemeanor, you may be able to represent yourself in court or use a public defender if you meet the income qualifications. However, if a conviction in your case could result in you going to prison for several years, you need an experienced Criminal Lawyer in Hyde Park to defend you.
There are a number of ways your attorney can help you. First, your attorney can help you understand the charges against you and the potential penalties if you are convicted. If you have to spend time in jail before your trial, your lawyer can help you sort through the legal advice you receive from other inmates and ensure that you have accurate information.
Your lawyer can also help you by negotiating with the prosecutor. Most criminal cases are settled by plea agreements before the cases go to trial. To get a plea bargain, you may have to plead guilty to a lesser charge and accept a lighter sentence than the one you were facing for your original charges. Your lawyer will not accept any offer without talking to you about it and clearly explaining the terms of the agreement. You are under no obligation to accept a plea bargain and if your lawyer isn’t able to negotiate a suitable agreement on your behalf, your case may go to trial.
Despite their best efforts, defense attorneys are not always able to get their clients set free. If you are convicted at trial or plead guilty to a crime, your Criminal Lawyer in Hyde Park may be able to work out an alternative sentence for you. In some cases, drug or alcohol rehabilitation programs are a more appropriate sentence than prison time.
Click Here to find out how hiring an attorney to defend you against criminal charges can benefit you and your family. Don’t try to fight serious charges on your own. You’ll have a much better chance of a favorable outcome when you have a strong advocate by your side.
