What It's Like To Discuss A Criminal Defense With A Lawyer

Working with a criminal defense lawyer services firm to present your side of an event when you've been accused of wrongdoing is a unique experience. You'll be putting a lot of faith in the hands of the practice that's representing your interests, so it's a good idea to know how the process works.

Getting Started

If you have not already been released from jail, your attorney will likely attempt to obtain your release at the first available hearing. You may be asked to post bond if the court feels you represent a flight risk. Counsel will try to get the lowest amount possible set. In a few cases, such as accusations of exceptional violence or criminality, the court may elect to not release a defendant pending trial.

Your attorney will schedule a meeting with you to go over the specifics of your case. If necessary, they may do some research regarding the events that occurred and relevant case law regarding the charges you're facing. Should you need to go to a preliminary hearing, your criminal defense lawyer will coach you through procedural stumbling blocks, such as the possible need to enter a plea of "not guilty" in order to obtain a continuance and have more time to prepare.

Exploring Options

The job of a criminal defense lawyer is to work toward what they feel is the best possible outcome in light of your circumstances. Depending upon the evidence and the nature of the charges, this can range from asking the court to dismiss the case to discussing a plea bargain with the prosecution. If the prosecutor's office offers a plea deal, your attorney has an obligation to present it to you regardless of whether you have stated no interest in taking one.

Returning to Court

Hearings are expected to be scheduled in a timely manner to ensure your case is heard. The initial court sessions will help the judge iron out details about where the case seems to be headed, including what evidence may or may not be admitted.

If the matter appears to be headed toward a trial, the judge will schedule jury selection, even if negotiations between your criminal defense services practice and the prosecution are ongoing. Most cases, however, do not end up at trial. It is not unusual for tough defense attorneys to drag the negotiation process out to this stage to strike a better deal.

Contact a firm, like Goble & Yow PLLC, for more help.

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