What Exactly Do Criminal Lawyers Do?
A criminal lawyer is someone who specializes in criminal law. They represent their clients in court, provide legal assistance, and protect your rights throughout the process. While this definition sounds self-explanatory, it’s difficult to summarize a lawyer’s duties in one sentence.
The Duties of a Criminal Lawyer
The best criminal lawyers will have their client’s best interests at heart, whether they’re the victim or the accused.
Here’s a look at some of the key responsibilities of criminal lawyers.
Advising clients on their legal rights and options
Criminal lawyers are experts in the criminal justice system and can advise you on the potential consequences of your charges, as well as your rights and options for defending yourself.
Representing clients in court
Criminal lawyers are responsible for representing their clients in court, making legal arguments, and presenting evidence in order to defend their clients against criminal charges or prove that the accused is guilty.
Negotiating plea deals
In some cases, criminal lawyers negotiate with prosecutors to reach a plea deal, which can result in reduced charges or a more lenient sentence.
Investigating cases
Criminal lawyers will also investigate the facts of your case, advise clients on evidence, and gather evidence in order to build a strong defense.
Preparing legal documents
Criminal lawyers are responsible for preparing legal documents, such as motions and pleadings, which will be filed with the court.
Advising clients on the appeals process
If a client is found guilty, criminal lawyers will also advise them on the appeals process and help them navigate it.
Attorneys are at their best when they’re fighting for your rights in their licensed jurisdiction. For example, the law offices of Marshall, criminal defense lawyers can take on criminal cases in Middlesex County, New Jersey, because they’re familiar with its unique court system.
If you’re facing criminal charges, it’s essential to consult with a qualified criminal lawyer as soon as possible to ensure that you have the best possible representation in court.
Stages of Criminal Trial Process and Criminal Cases
Criminal lawyers play a crucial role in the criminal justice system and can help you understand your options. They will help you to navigate the complex legal process and provide you with the best possible defense. Their role may change depending on the stage of the trial process.
Police Investigation and Arrest
During this stage, a criminal lawyer will assist the person being investigated by the police. They’ll help them understand parts of the legal system and give them strategic options on how to deal with the police. A lawyer will typically advise their client to remain silent at all times.
Pre-Trial and Investigation
Criminal lawyers will review evidence and assess a possible legal defense. At this stage, the client can choose to go to trial or plead guilty. Lawyers will attempt to negotiate bail conditions, provide judges with evidence that may influence their position, and discuss the trial’s next steps.
Preparing for the Criminal Trial
Before the trial, a criminal lawyer will prep the client and potentially request further disclosure on forensic evidence or witnesses. They’ll prepare opening statements, find areas of cross examination, and closing submissions. Much of this work is done away from the lawyer’s client.
During the Criminal Trial
The trial is where the lawyer will truly shine. Since criminal trials are stressful and unpredictable, the lawyer will be the client’s guiding light. They’ll make sure their client is comfortable and prepared to answer questions. They’ll also help them during sentencing or the appeal process.
Depending on the client’s circumstances, the criminal lawyer may suggest counseling, mental health evaluations, or other treatments to improve their chances of mitigating the sentence.
