For many good and honest people, the mistake of taking an action too far in a dispute, having one too many drinks, dealing with a chemical addiction of a loved one, or becoming addicted themselves leads to being charged with a criminal offense. Sometimes it’s only a matter of being caught in the wrong place, at the wrong time, or with the wrong people. Most people charged with a misdemeanor or felony are not intentionally pursuing a life of crime.
When people find themselves in a situation where they have been arrested and charged, or are being questioned in connection to a crime, it’s easy for them to feel overwhelmed, helpless, or even angry.
When this happens, the most important thing to remember is that:
- You are not alone.
- You are innocent until proven guilty.
- Even if you believe the police has solid evidence against, there might be a defense that will help you avoid the worst possible penalties the law allows.
- Having a strong defense can make all of the difference in the outcome of your case.
Hiring a good criminal defense lawyer is critical to the successful outcome of a criminal case. Here’s why good criminal defense attorneys are hired:
- They build a strong defense
Criminal defense attorneys have a legal dictionary obligation to have the criminal charges against their clients dismissed on legal grounds, or seek to have the charges reduced.
- They hold the state accountable
By making sure their client’s rights are protected, defense attorneys can make legitimate appeals if constitutional rights are violated due to mistakes made by the state.
- They can challenge probable cause for the arrest
Unless the police have probable cause for stopping a person, questioning them, giving them a field sobriety test, the police have no legal right to make an arrest. Defense attorneys start by investigating the actions of the police that led to the arrest.
- They make sure their clients don’t incriminate themselves
If a client is being questioned about a crime, they need to remember that under our legal system they are entitled to legal representation and don’t have to say anything that would incriminate themselves.
- They will work hard to avoid a harsh sentence
If a client is found guilty in a trial or must accept a plea agreement, criminal defense attorneys can fight for a less severe sentence that is appropriate for the client’s circumstances to avoid lengthy jail or prison time.
- They will work toward an alternative to a conviction
If charges are not dismissed and the client is found guilty, a defense attorney can work with the prosecutor toward probation options or find alternative programs that the client may enter so that he or she can avoid conviction and jail time.
Dealing with legal issues can quickly become overwhelming. With the complex procedures of our legal system, it is best to seek the professional services of an experienced and reliable San Diego Criminal Defense Attorney to avoid any complications and ensure the successful outcome of a criminal case.
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