Anyone facing criminal charges needs to hire a lawyer. In fact, defendants may need a lawyer to get out of jail. Local judges pre-set bonds for many charges. However, defendants with a major felony charge must ask for a bond. Lawyers, like Maria Caruso, file a Motion For Bond. A hearing is set and the lawyer explains the defendant is not a threat. Bonds are denied only for the most heinous crimes. Sometimes, a defendant faces federal charges. There are major differences between federal and state courts.
A Criminal Lawyer in Bel Air MD explains that federal crimes are more serious. In fact, federal court has mandatory sentences for many crimes. Additionally, the government has the case laid out before they arrest defendants. Therefore, defense lawyers have to work hard to catch up. That means the lawyer must investigate and file pre-trial motions right away. Justice may not be as swift in a state court. A defendant’s first appearance in state court is often the arraignment. The accused must enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. At the arraignment, the lawyer should be prepared to file several motions. These motions may include,
* Demand For Trial
* Motion For Reciprocal Discovery
* Demand For A Speedy Trial
A Motion To Suppress is filed if the lawyer wants certain evidence excluded at trial. A Criminal Lawyer in Bel Air MD may convince the court to dismiss charges. The lawyer does this by showing there is not enough evidence. Further, they will argue the police did not have probable cause for an arrest. The lawyer may try to plea bargain if they think the defendant will be convicted.
In fact, lawyers usually know which prosecutors are willing to offer a plea deal. On the other hand, innocent defendants who are convicted must file an appeal. During an appeal, the lawyer challenges the trial court’s decision. However, they must show that serious errors of law occurred. It can take months for a higher court to decide an appeal. In the meantime, the defendant usually stays in jail. Whatever the scenario, hire a criminal lawyer who fights for you.
