If you have been charged with a crime in California, one of the first things you should do is hire a criminal defense attorney to handle your case. Regardless of what your charge is, criminal law can be complex, so it is to your advantage to hire an attorney who handles cases like yours on a regular basis.
California criminal defense attorney Johann Hall has several years of experience handling all different types of criminal defense cases to the satisfaction of his clients. Contact attorney Johann Hall today to schedule your consultation and get started building your defense.
Knowledge of Laws and Procedures
One of the biggest advantages you gain by hiring a criminal defense attorney to represent you is that your attorney likely already knows the ins and outs of the crime you have been accused of. Your attorney can give you an idea of what the consequences will be if you are found guilty, or he or she can explain the pros and cons of any plea offer made by the prosecution. The advantage of having an attorney is that you will be provided with information to make informed decisions when it comes to your case.
Your attorney will also know all of the legal procedures. There are certain dates and deadlines that must be followed, and your attorney will already be aware of these. By hiring an attorney, you save yourself countless hours of legal research, and you also have the benefit of trusting that your attorney has up-to-date legal knowledge specific to your case, as whatever you find on the internet may be outdated or incorrect.
The Advantage of Better Deals
In some situations, it may be better for you to reach a plea deal rather than proceeding with a trial for your case. If you have an attorney, they will use their experience with settlements and plea deals to guide you through the process and explain in detail what is being offered to you and how it will affect you. Your attorney also will have negotiation skills to work with the prosecutor and potentially work out a plea deal that is beneficial to you.
You Will Benefit from Your Attorney’s Expertise When It Comes to Examining Evidence
Although most police officers and people involved in handling evidence are honest, there may be occasions where someone purposely or inadvertently destroys or tampers with evidence. If you have hired a good defense attorney, he or she can protect you from unethical or unfair procedures, as well as fabricated or exaggerated details in police reports and witness testimonies. A lawyer is simply better equipped to track down all relevant evidence and identify weak or contradicting statements.
Your Attorney Will Know Where to Find Expert Witnesses If Needed in Your Case
Depending on the facts of your criminal case, you may benefit from help from other professionals in the form of expert witnesses. For example, an expert on blood alcohol analysis may be helpful to you if you are fighting a DUI charge. Having an experienced attorney on your side local to the area can access professionals that may help your defense, such as expert witnesses in various areas, doctors or private investigators. If you are handling your case by yourself, it might be difficult to locate these professionals and to know whether or not a judge will find them credible.
Your Attorney Can Help You Deal with the Prosecutors on the Other Side of Your Case
It is always a good idea to hire a criminal defense lawyer who practices in your area. This is an advantage because he or she will know the judges in the area, as well as the prosecutors. Your attorney will probably know their weaknesses and the likelihood that the prosecutor handling your case will ultimately dismiss it or will give you a fair plea deal. He or she will also know what the judge tends to give out for sentencing, and what mitigating factors matter to the judge assigned to your case.
Your Best Chance at Keeping Your Criminal Record Clean
Another advantage to having a criminal defense attorney handle your case is that they can give you the best chance to keep your record clean. Your attorney may be able to have your case dismissed outright or win your case for you. In the event you are convicted, your attorney may able to appeal your conviction to be set aside from your record.
Hiring a criminal defense attorney gives you a huge advantage in your case. If you have been charged with a crime and need an attorney, call California criminal defense attorney Johann Hall today or fill out our online contact form.