Were you recently charged with drug possession, assault, or another type of crime in New Jersey? If so, you may have considered hiring a criminal defense lawyer. Many people wonder if there is any benefit to working with a criminal defense lawyer, most notably how they can help defend against severe charges. Here are the top 10 reasons why you should contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible:
Benefits of Hiring a Criminal Defense Lawyer
1. They Know What to Expect
Understanding the process of upcoming trial dates and hearings is crucial for your case. A criminal defense lawyer has extensive experience in your local court systems and can provide guidance on what to anticipate with each court appearance.
2. They Navigate the Complex Legal System
The New Jersey legal system can be confusing and difficult to navigate, especially if this is your first time being charged with a crime. It's essential to adhere to deadlines and understand your hearing timeline. Your lawyer will ensure that your case stays on track and complies with the state's legal requirements.
3. They Negotiate on Your Behalf
Depending on the circumstances of your case and your criminal record (or lack thereof), the prosecutor may be open to negotiating your charges. Your criminal defense lawyer will be able to analyze what’s being offered and provide guidance on whether or not you should accept the prosecutor’s negotiation.
4. They Build a Strong Defense
There are numerous defenses available to certain types of New Jersey’s criminal charges; your criminal defense lawyer will help you build a defense based on the specific circumstances of your case.
5. They Conduct a Thorough Investigation
Building your defense may require an investigation into the details of what happened. Your lawyer will use their investigative skills to uncover details that may be useful for securing a plea bargain, reducing your charges or, in some cases, proving your innocence if you’ve been falsely accused.
6. They Gather Essential Evidence
Evidence may be needed to support your legal defense. Your lawyer will track down necessary evidence through witness interviews and other methods.
7. They Secure Expert Witnesses
Expert witnesses are often a part of criminal defense cases due to their experience and knowledge in certain areas such as blood splatter, DNA testing, forensics, drug recognition, and more. Your lawyer will hire expert witnesses as needed to strengthen your case.
8. They May Be Able to Reduce Your Charges
Your criminal defense lawyer may be able to get your charges reduced, which could mean less jail time or fewer legal fines for you.
9. They Strive to Avoid Jail Time
Jail time is a possibility with many criminal charges. Your lawyer will work to keep you out of jail, even if this means negotiating alternatives like community service or mandatory drug or alcohol classes.
10. They Are Here to Help You Avoid a Criminal Record
A criminal record can negatively impact your life for years to come, making it nearly impossible to secure education, housing, employment, and loans. Your lawyer will work to not only reduce your criminal charges, but also to protect your record from these potentially life-changing criminal charges.
Work With a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Whether you are dealing with driving while intoxicated charges or have pending drug charges, it’s important to consider what these charges can mean for your future. While you may be tempted to go it alone, this can be a mistake that could cost you your future.
Defendants who work with a lawyer will often receive better outcomes. In some cases, the prosecutor may agree to reduce charges in exchange for a guilty plea, referred to as a plea deal. This can result in a lesser sentence, allowing you to move forward with your life sooner.
Contact Davis Law Firm, LLC Today For a Free Consultation About Criminal Defense
Were you arrested or charged with shoplifting, drug distribution, or weapons possession in the state of New Jersey? The consequences of a conviction could be severe, leaving you with a permanent criminal record and possibly even sending you to jail. That is why you need to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
The attorneys at the Davis Law Firm, LLC have successfully represented clients charged with criminal charges in Ewing, East Windsor, Trenton, Hamilton and throughout New Jersey. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team. We have an office conveniently located at 2653 Nottingham Way, Hamilton, NJ 08619.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
