What Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Do?
In the criminal justice system, there are two types of criminal defense attorneys, public defenders and privately retained criminal defense attorneys. Public defenders are appointed to represent you and are paid by the government. Unfortunately you do not get to pick your public defender. Alternatively, you can research the best criminal defense attorney for your case and hire them. Your criminal defense attorney will meet with you and gather all the necessary facts about your case by asking questions and reviewing the evidence.
Your criminal defense attorney will investigate the case in a comprehensive manner in order to determine if there is a chance of an acquittal, or, in the alternative, how to build a strong defense on your behalf in order to mitigate your penalties as much as possible. Criminal defense attorneys have the right to review all the prosecutor’s evidence and find our own evidence, before a case is taken to jury trial. This allows your attorney to determine whether there are defenses or holes in the case against you and how best to defend your case.
If no plea deal can be negotiated prior to the trial, then your case will go to trial where a jury will be selected. During the trial, your criminal defense attorney will fight for you every step of the way by examining witnesses, cross-examining the state’s witnesses, and working present your case of innocent and convince the jury that the prosecutor is wrong and has not met the burden of proof. If you are convicted of the crime, your attorney will fight for a lesser sentence and file an appeal when applicable. You would never want to try and handle criminal charges on your own, as your future is at stake.
If you are facing a criminal charge, you need to get started working on your defense right away since that allows you more preparation time than if you just wait until the last minute.
We understand the Maryland criminal justice system. We can help you learn about your options for pleas. We can also help you learn about possible deals and defense strategies. You deserve to be informed since the criminal justice proceedings affect your life.
No matter what type of charge you are facing, you should understand that there are potentially serious penalties you may face if you are convicted. Some people might be facing fines, incarceration, probation, and community service for crimes like thefts, DUIs, DWIs, drug possession, assault, embezzlement, prostitution, harassment, domestic abuse or firearm possession.
Sentencing
Once you are convicted of a criminal charge, you will have to face the sentencing portion of the case. This usually takes place shortly after the conviction in minor cases, such as misdemeanors. In some felony cases, there might be another hearing at which the sentencing takes places.
There are several things that are considered when you are sentenced for a conviction. These include your criminal history, whether the crime involved another person under duress or not, whether you were the main participant or an accomplice, any injuries, any cruelty, and your remorse for your actions.
The judge will usually consider the prosecution's recommendation for a sentence. Any character witnesses you call on your behalf, and the probation department's pre-sentence report are all usually considered while the judge is determining the sentence.
In most cases, the judge has a wide range of penalties from which to choose. There are some exceptions to this, such as when there is a mandatory minimum sentence. It is important to understand these guidelines before your sentencing hearing since they can have a big impact on what penalties you are going to face.
Typically, the judge can sentence you to pay fines, serve time in prison, or spend time on probation. Community service is another option that is sometimes used.
If you don't understand the possible sentences that you face for a criminal act, you should find out this information as soon as possible. Having your questions answered in advance regarding sentencing and what factors influence it could help you to plan your defense before you take your case to tria
PROVIDING AGGRESSIVE DEFENSE
Our firm focuses on building effective defenses for our clients and we can provide you with the personalized legal service and guidance you need throughout the criminal process, from investigation to Grand Jury or preliminary hearing, through a trial to a verdict. We will keep you informed every step of the way when you work with us!
