When you are charged with a crime, whether it’s a misdemeanor or a felony, the first thing you should do is hire a criminal attorney.
Criminal defense attorneys specialize in protecting the rights of the accused. Their job is to ensure you are defended and supported as you enter the criminal justice system, regardless of whether your case goes to trial.
Most criminal charges are resolved by plea bargains, and trust us: you want an experienced, well-connected attorney on your side to deal with the prosecution and push for a fair result on your behalf.
Thinking of representing yourself? That’s ill-advised for several reasons, but rather than diving into those, we want to explore the significant advantages that come with hiring a skilled criminal defense attorney from the start.
Let’s talk about it.
(1) Better Understand Your Circumstances
Arguably the first reason to hire a criminal defense attorney is that it will help you understand the basics of your case: what you’ve been charged with, the potential consequences of the charge, and your next options.
Criminal offenses are categorized into two main types: misdemeanors and felonies. The primary difference between them lies in the severity of the crime and the corresponding penalties – and your attorney’s approach will likely vary depending on the category of crime.
Misdemeanors
Misdemeanors are considered less serious offenses compared to felonies. They typically involve lighter penalties, such as fines, community service, probation, and jail time of up to one year.
These “smaller” offenses are often handled in lower courts, such as municipal or district courts, and can sometimes be resolved without a trial through plea agreements or diversion programs.
Examples of Misdemeanors:
- Petty Theft: Theft of items of relatively low value, such as shoplifting.
- Simple Assault: An assault that does not result in serious injury.
- Public Intoxication: Being visibly drunk or under the influence of drugs in a public place.
- Trespassing: Entering someone’s property without permission.
- Vandalism: Deliberate property damage, such as graffiti.
Felonies
Felonies are more serious crimes that carry harsher penalties, including potential imprisonment for more than one year, significant fines, and in some cases, even court-ordered death. Convictions may also lead to long-term consequences such as the loss of voting rights or restrictions on owning firearms.
Due to their severity, felony cases are typically tried in higher courts, such as superior or circuit courts, and involve more complex legal procedures.
Examples of Felony Crimes:
- Homicide: The unlawful killing of another person with intent.
- Rape: Non-consensual sexual intercourse accomplished through force or coercion.
- Robbery: Taking property from someone by force or threat of force.
- Aggravated Assault: An assault that results in serious bodily injury or involves a weapon.
- Drug Trafficking: The distribution or sale of large quantities of illegal drugs.
Whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony, a knowledgeable crime lawyer will explain the severity of your charges and the legal ramifications, helping you understand what you are facing.
They can also explain how a conviction might affect various aspects of your life, including your ability to secure employment, maintain family relationships, and uphold your social reputation.
(2) Benefit From Relevant Legal Expertise
Protect Your Rights
A criminal defense lawyer protects your constitutional rights throughout all legal proceedings. From your arrest to trial and beyond, your private lawyer will safeguard your right to a fair trial, protection against unlawful searches and seizures, and the right to remain silent.
Just as importantly, an experienced attorney will help you identify any violations of your rights and use them to your advantage in court. They know this game and will use every possible mistake to your advantage.
Mitigate Potential Penalties
Experienced criminal attorneys know the ropes and can skillfully negotiate for reduced charges or lighter sentences. They have the expertise to present mitigating factors that could lessen the severity of the penalties. In some cases, this could mean the difference between a lengthy prison sentence and probation or a significant reduction in fines.
Negotiate Plea Bargains and Settlements
Criminal defense lawyers are trained negotiators who can engage in plea bargains and settlements more effectively than you could without professional help. Their ability to pursue favorable terms can potentially result in reduced charges or alternative sentencing options, such as community service or rehabilitation programs.
Access Additional Legal Resources
Private attorneys have access to many resources that can help you build a strong defense. These include private investigators who can help uncover evidence, as well as expert witnesses who can provide testimony to support your case.
(3) Navigate the Complex Criminal Justice System
To put it bluntly, the legal procedures and paperwork involved in a criminal defense case are intricate and overwhelming.
A skilled criminal defense attorney will help you face these complexities head-on, ensuring all documents are accurately prepared and submitted on time. They also understand the procedural requirements and can navigate the court system efficiently, avoiding common pitfalls that could jeopardize your case.
Handling legal procedures involves understanding legal jargon, filing motions, and meeting court deadlines, which can be daunting for those without legal training. An attorney’s expertise helps minimize procedural errors and ensures your case is presented in the best possible light.
While your attorney handles the details of your case, you can focus on other important matters such as your mental health, caring for your family, and managing your personal schedule.
(4) Develop a Strong Case Strategy
Lastly, when you hire a specialized defense lawyer, they will assess the details of your case to develop a tailored strategy. This involves sifting through evidence with a fine-toothed comb, interviewing critical witnesses, and identifying any exploitable weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
This strategic planning is essential in mounting an effective defense and can significantly influence your case’s resolution. Even if you’ve been charged with a minor offense, you want to know that you’re presenting the strongest case possible for fair results.
Common Misconceptions About Hiring Criminal Lawyers
Cost Concerns
Many people incorrectly believe that hiring a lawyer is expensive and that the out-of-pocket expenses will be significant.
The truth is that the potential long-term costs of not hiring proper legal representation can be much higher. Without a skilled defense attorney, you risk severe penalties, including long-term imprisonment and hefty fines, which can lead to financial ruin.
Moreover, a criminal conviction can limit future earning potential and opportunities in any state.
In Utah, the average hourly attorney fee falls around $275, which is well below the average U.S. hourly fee of $353. Although this might sound expensive, the repercussions of representing yourself or relying on a public defender can be far more economically impactful.
Public Defenders vs. Private Attorneys
These two are not the same. A public defender is court-appointed, which means you do not select your legal representative or their specialties. Additionally, public defenders often have large caseloads and are limited in the amount of time and resources they can devote to your specific cause.
In contrast, private criminal defense lawyers typically have smaller, more manageable caseloads, which allows them to grant your case more personalized attention. A hand-selected attorney may also specialize in a specific area, which can help them apply more tailored strategies to your defense.
FAQs About Hiring Criminal Defense Attorneys
Is it ever a good idea to represent yourself in court?
Although technically permissible, representing yourself in court is generally not advisable, especially in criminal cases.
The legal system is intricate, and even seemingly minor procedural mistakes can have significant consequences. An experienced attorney will have the expertise to navigate these complexities, protect your rights, and present a compelling defense.
Keep in mind that criminal cases often have high stakes, and professional legal representation is crucial if you want to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your loved ones.
How much does it cost to hire a defense attorney in Utah?
The cost of hiring a criminal defense attorney in Salt Lake City or anywhere in Utah varies widely depending on the complexity of your case, the attorney’s experience, and the time required to prepare and present your defense. Fees can range from a few thousand dollars for a straightforward misdemeanor to significantly higher amounts for serious felony cases.
To learn what your costs will include, inquire about payment policies and fees upfront when evaluating different criminal attorneys.
What is the primary responsibility of your defense attorney?
Ultimately, your criminal defense attorney should aim to vigorously defend your rights and advise you on the best course of action after your charge. They will serve as a partner, working to achieve the most favorable outcome possible through negotiations, plea bargains, or trials.
What is the difference between a defense attorney and a prosecutor?
The primary difference is that a criminal defense attorney represents individuals accused of crimes and works to defend them against the charges and protect their rights. In contrast, a prosecutor represents the government and is responsible for presenting the case against the accused, seeking to prove their guilt.
Both roles are essential in the criminal justice system, but a criminal defense attorney is the one who will advocate for your rights and defend you in and out of court.
Were You Charged With a Crime in Salt Lake City? Let’s Talk.
If you’ve been accused of a criminal offense, your first move should always be to hire a criminal defense attorney in Salt Lake City. Doing so will protect your rights and ensure you explore the best next steps for your legal strategy.
At Brummer Law, we’ve handled a wide range of criminal cases throughout the Salt Lake City area, including those involving violent crimes, white-collar crimes, and other charges. It’s our job to ensure defendants are protected and guided throughout the entire process, starting with their arrest.
Reach Out to Our Utah Criminal Law Office
Do you need legal representation? Set up a complimentary 15-minute consultation with a Salt Lake City criminal defense lawyer.
Our legal team will review the specifics of your criminal charges, and then make appropriate recommendations for unique circumstances.