Getting charged for a crime is an uncomfortable situation to be in and no one would ever wish to face such a scenario. However, in the unfortunate event that you face criminal charges, you might be wondering if it’s worthwhile to engage a criminal lawyer. In this post, we take a closer look at what exactly it is that criminal lawyers do and the things to consider when deciding whether to engage a criminal lawyer.
Duties and Responsibilities of a Criminal Lawyer
Criminal lawyers play an important role in the criminal justice system, and they help to ensure that justice is fairly administered. Their clients typically include people who have been charged with a criminal offence. Criminal lawyers usually work with their clients throughout the entire criminal defence process, starting from the charge to the trial.
Some of the common duties and responsibilities of criminal lawyers include:
- Interviewing their clients to determine their culpability and fault in order to craft a strong defence.
- Preparing mitigation pleas for clients who intend to plead guilty.
- Preparing defences for clients who do not intend to plead guilty.
- Liaising with prosecutors regarding the procedures and processes regarding their clients’ cases.
- Appearing before judges to represent their clients in court during hearings and summonses.
- Helping their clients prepare for their appeals and parole hearings if they have already been convicted with a crime and sentenced.
Should You Engage a Criminal Lawyer?
You might be wondering if it is really necessary to engage a criminal lawyer. After all, it may be tempting to represent yourself in court, especially if you think that your case is a relatively minor one that involves a small legal violation. However, more often than not, engaging a criminal lawyer is still the best course of action when you have been charged with a crime. Criminal lawyers are familiar with the ins and outs of the legal process, and they may be able to help you achieve the best possible outcome in your case.
Here are some of the factors to consider when deciding whether to engage a criminal lawyer:
- Severity of the charge. While you may be able to handle a speeding ticket on your own, you should engage a criminal lawyer if you’re charged with anything more severe that requires you to attend court.
- Familiarity with the charge. If you’ve been charged with a crime that you’re unfamiliar with, you should engage a criminal lawyer to avoid making any mistakes when preparing your plea.
Leanne Warren & Associates: Top Criminal Lawyers in Melbourne
If you find yourself in a position where you’re in need of legal representation, Leanne Warren & Associates is here to help. Our team comprises some of the top criminal lawyers in Melbourne and the surrounding areas, and we have decades of experience combined in the practice of criminal law. Speak with a member of our team today to see how we can help you and give you peace of mind, no matter the situation you’re in.
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