When faced with a criminal charge, it is imperative to retain an attorney. Failure to do so can cause lasting and indelible damages to one’s future. It can cause one to risk jail time and pay large financial penalties, as well as obtain a criminal record. 

First and foremost, it is crucial to retain an attorney that focuses their practice in criminal defense. This area of the law requires a nuanced understanding of criminal procedures and courtroom experience.

Unlike other areas of law, a criminal defense attorney needs to have experience dealing with prosecutors, police, and the lawyer needs to understand the requirements of the local court and rules. An experienced attorney that is well known in the community can leverage their goodwill and experience in negotiations with the prosecutor and police, as well as persuade a judge and the jury.

Often, in criminal cases, an attorney may need to present a plea bargain to reduce or eliminate a sentence. An attorney may also be able to negotiate a substitution of drug rehabilitation or community service to fulfill sentencing requirements.

What are Signs of Credibility?

A criminal defense attorney can evaluate the case and tailor a defense strategy based on the allegations and evidence. The attorney should be confident and have expertise in dealing with a jury in the event the case proceeds to trial. A dynamic and credible attorney who can clearly explain complex legalese and earn the trust of the jury can be an asset in a trial setting.

How Should a Lawyer Prepare for Trial?

A criminal defense attorney also needs to interview witnesses, gather and analyze evidence to discredit a prosecution’s case, and bolster the defense. Experienced legal counsel will have honed these analytical and legal skills so that they can have the best outcome for the case. A good attorney will know how to interview and prepare witnesses for trial as many will be reluctant to do so in a criminal case.

Another way a criminal defense attorney can ensure a successful defense is by engaging suitable experts who can provide expert testimony during trial preparation and trial. Oftentimes, expert analysis can help with negotiations as expert testimony can be pivotal in proving one’s guilt or innocence. Criminal defense attorneys will also know several experts. They should be able to recruit the most suitable ones for each case. Depending on the case, experts from the fields of forensics, genetics, medical examination, physicians, accident reconstruction, and others may be needed.

When Should I Hire a Lawyer?

Some types of charges that require a criminal defense lawyer includes the following:

Drug Charges: When charged with a drug offense, it is crucial to contact a criminal defense attorney right away. Drug-related crimes include possession, sale, and trafficking of illegal substances and paraphernalia. 

DUI/DWI Offense: Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol is a crime. Other alcohol-related crimes include underage drinking and public intoxication.

Assault and Battery Charges: An attorney can help construct a defense based on self-defense, among others.

Theft: These charges include the act of taking another’s property without their consent with the intent to permanently deprive them of the property.

Financial Crimes: These crimes involve fraud and money-laundering. If charged with a crime related to financial institutions, it is advisable to retain an attorney that specializes in white-collar crimes.

Since criminal charges carry the harshest penalties, they should not be taken lightly. It is important to hire a lawyer as soon as possible

Cherry Hill Criminal Defense Lawyers at Aita Law, LLC Advocate for the Falsely Accused

If you have been charged with a crime, contact one of our accomplished Cherry Hill criminal defense lawyers at Aita Law, LLC. Our attorneys vigorously protect the rights of our clients. For a free consultation, complete our online form or call us at 856-287-7800. Located in Haddonfield and Marlton, New Jersey, we serve clients throughout South Jersey, including Cherry Hill and Camden County.