There is a saying that people who represent themselves, have a fool for a lawyer, and it is true in many ways. Individuals in trouble with the law need effective legal representation. If you are looking for a criminal lawyer, ask family and friends for referrals. In addition, be skeptical if a lawyer advertises as a specialist. Lawyers are banned from calling themselves specialists unless they meet certain criteria. The best advice is to find a lawyer with experience handling your type of case.
Visit the firm of Ezell Chancey & Raiford, LLP at their law offices in Phenix City, AL. This firm has lawyers who have handled criminal cases for years. The best criminal lawyers do a lot of pretrial work. After meeting a client, they thoroughly investigate all aspects of the case. The witnesses must be interviewed, and a trial strategy developed. The lawyer will also research the case to see if any new case law affects the way it is handled. The first major courtroom proceeding is the arraignment. The lawyer advises the client on whether they should plead guilty or not guilty. Additionally, the prosecutor may offer a plea during this time.
The value of experience in a jurisdiction is that lawyers know the lay of the land, and they know which prosecutors are more likely to offer deals. Deals may include accepting a guilty plea in exchange for a reduced sentence. In the same vein, an attorney from the law offices in Phenix City, AL may be familiar with the local judges; it is helpful to know in advance whether the judge is likely to give a client a second chance. On the other hand, some judges are known for severe sentences. If a trial is necessary, the prosecutor has the burden of proving the case.
A criminal defense attorney needs to develop alternate theories of the crime. This strategy is used to create reasonable doubt in the minds of the jury. The average person does not know the law or how the legal system operates, so it is always best to hire a lawyer to make sure your rights are protected.
