If you have been involved in a criminal matter or are being accused of being involved in such a case, you might wonder if you really need to hire a lawyer, or if you should represent yourself.
Many distrust lawyers because of the ways that they’re portrayed in television and movies, but in reality, criminal lawyers work extremely hard to protect your rights and prevent you from receiving a harsh sentence. In fact, this is the sole responsibility and they will do everything in their power within the bounds of the law to accomplish this goal.
Still, some choose to represent themselves. Below are four reasons you should carefully consider hiring a defence attorney.
Expense
Many understand that it’s very expensive to have a lawyer help them with their case. However, there are two factors that you should consider here.
First, can you afford not to hire an attorney? Without legal assistance, and depending on your case, you might end up with hefty legal fines that you don’t deserve, or you could ending spending time incarcerated. That could cost you much more than legal representation.
Second, if you truly cannot afford to hire an attorney, you may be able to get court-appointed representation, or at least get some of your questions answered in a free consultation with a lawyer.
You should at least attempt to find some help, even if you cannot afford an attorney.
Experience
Every case is different, and although you might be able to find some general rules or come to a general understanding of how your specific case is usually handled, you’re likely to be caught off guard at some point. Experienced lawyers know exactly what to expect. They have studied cases just like yours and know what the best approach to any case will be.
Experienced lawyers are generally familiar with the judges you might have to deal with, and may even be familiar with the prosecutors on the other side of the case.
This experience will enable them to tailor the way that your case is handled to ensure that you get the best possible representation in court.
Expertise
Lawyers that practice criminal defence are going to be far more familiar with applicable laws than you could hope to be in your own research. For all you know, you could have a situation that might make your case extremely simple to handle, but if you don’t talk to an expert lawyer, you’ll never know it.
More than in any other practice, legal expertise and specialization is needed in order to ensure that you have the best outcome possible.
Respect
Many believe that representing themselves in court will make them appear innocent to the judge or jury. In reality, though, many judges find this to be foolish.
Hiring a lawyer looks good because it proves to the judge that you are taking this matter seriously and that you respect the legal system. This could absolutely make things easier for you in court. Displaying respect for the system and those appointed in it is crucial to your success.
