Many people have heard of a defense attorney, but they don’t necessarily understand their role. It’s not uncommon for people to assume the worst about defense lawyers, but, without them, the deck is stacked against anyone accused of a crime, guilty or not. Criminal defense lawyers play a crucial role in our legal system and they’re vital when it comes to ensuring that their clients receive a fair trial.
Criminal defense attorneys are responsible for representing their clients in court, advising them of their rights, negotiating plea deals, and preparing cases for trial. They may also specialize in specific areas of criminal law, such as DUI defense or drug crimes. At the Jimenez Law Firm, for instance, we even specialize in certain areas of family law, too, like divorce and adoption.
A criminal defense attorney’s job is to protect their client’s constitutional rights and ensure that they receive a fair trial. They also work to get the best possible outcome for their client, whether that means a dismissal of charges, a not guilty verdict, or a reduced sentence.
What Are the Steps in a Criminal Case?
The first step in any criminal case is usually an arrest. After an arrest, the defendant will be arraigned and will have the opportunity to enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. If the defendant pleads not guilty, the case will go to trial.
If the defendant is convicted, they will be sentenced by the court. The sentence may include probation, community service, fines, or jail time. The consequences of a criminal charge can stay with you for a lifetime.
If you are facing criminal charges, it is important to have an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side every step of the way. Not only will they work to protect your rights, but they’ll ensure evidence was collected properly and that the legal system isn’t overreaching when it comes to your freedoms. Contact the Jimenez Law Firm today to schedule a consultation. We will review your case and help you understand your rights and options.
What Are Some Defenses to Criminal Charges?
There are many possible defenses to criminal charges, and the best defense will depend on the facts of each case. Some common defenses include self-defense, duress, entrapment, and mistake of fact.
The experienced criminal defense attorneys at the Jimenez Law Firm will know which defenses are most likely to succeed in your particular case and will fight tirelessly to get you the best possible outcome.
Not only is your defense attorney well-versed in defense strategy but they’ll also have an intimate understanding of Texas laws in order to better help you and your case.
What Happens if I am Found Guilty?
If you are found guilty of a crime, you will be sentenced by the court. The sentence may include probation, community service, fines, jail time, or some combination of punishments. If you are facing criminal charges, it is important to have an experienced defense attorney on your side who can help you understand your rights and options.
How to choose a criminal defense attorney
When you are facing criminal charges, it is important to have an experienced and aggressive criminal defense attorney on your side. But how do you choose the right attorney for your case?
Here are some things to consider when choosing a criminal lawyer:
- The attorney’s experience: You should look for an attorney who has experience handling cases like yours.
- The attorney’s reputation: Ask around and see what other people say about the attorney. You can also check online reviews.
- The cost: Make sure you understand the cost of representation before hiring an attorney. Ask about the fee structure and whether the attorney accepts payment plans.
The best thing you can do for yourself when faced with criminal charges is to find the best criminal defense attorney in your area. While it is true that you can get a court-appointed attorney if you don’t have another lawyer, this isn’t always a good idea. Court-appointed attorneys are regularly overworked and underpaid. They often have a much larger caseload than a private defense attorney, meaning that their clients do not receive the same time and dedication that you would receive at a firm like the Jimenez Law Firm. In addition, court-appointed attorneys may be more likely to negotiate with the prosecution to get the case off their list. This could result in negotiations that may not be in your best interest.
Hiring your own criminal defense lawyer ensures you’re working with an attorney who has the time and means to handle your case with the care you deserve. They will be better focused on the details of your case and less likely to make a bad deal with the prosecution.
Since criminal charges can impact you for the rest of your life, it’s important to take these charges seriously and make the decision to hire a defense lawyer. They will fight for your rights, ensure you have a fair trial, and look out for your best interests.
