There’s a lot at stake when it comes to legal procedures. The criminal justice system is already as complex as it is, but a defense attorney is your best solution. These attorneys are divided into two groups: private and court-appointed attorneys.
Some defendants can afford to hire a criminal defense lawyer, while others are left with court-appointed attorneys to handle their cases. However, a small fraction of defendants decides to represent themselves, also known as ‘’pro se’’ defendants.
Either way, if you’re currently in a similar situation and want to know more about the job of a criminal defense attorney, this article is for you.
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
Both private and court-appointed criminal defense attorneys have similar duties. This means researching the facts, investigating your case, and negotiating deals on your behalf. These deals include reduced charges, reduced bail, and reduced sentences.
You can find a lawyer anywhere you live, but they must be experienced. For example, if you’re from New York, you can contact the Law Offices of Gregg A. Pinto, as he’s a qualified attorney who can examine your case and represent you lawfully.
Additionally, criminal defense lawyers also help with witnesses, analyze the prosecutor’s case, formulate a plea, assess the potential sentences, etc. More importantly, they provide personal services like helping the defendant deal with the fears and stress that come after a criminal charge.
How Much Does Legal Representation Cost?
Let’s be real; the defendant’s financial status is an essential factor that determines legal representation. Sadly, not many people have money to pay for a private lawyer.
Private attorneys charge either a fixed fee or an hourly basis that usually starts from $150 or higher. However, if the defendant can’t afford private counsel, the court will appoint a paid public lawyer.
If you fall on the list of those who can afford a private lawyer, you should reach out to New York Criminal Defense Lawyers, and they’ll take a closer look at your case and determine the potential outcomes.
Remember that the right to a free defense attorney works when a defendant faces a prison or jail sentence. However, this doesn’t mean they have a right to choose a lawyer; the court picks one for them.
Private vs. Court-Appointed Attorney: Who’s Better?
Most defendants believe that private lawyers are better than court-appointed attorneys, who are paid a minimum fee. However, many private attorneys used to be public defenders.
Although the results for defendants are more or less the same, people represented by private counsel tend to perform better in some ways. For example, clients of private attorneys often have short or no prior criminal records.
If you want to find the best criminal defense lawyers, you need to do your research well to ensure you’re sending your money down the drain for nothing.
That said, the experience, skills, and commitment of an attorney play a huge part in the final verdict of your case. Still, you need to start looking for a lawyer nearby. For example, you can search ‘criminal defense lawyers in New York,’ and the lists of attorneys will pop up.
Ultimately, being represented by a lawyer is always the best alternative. Try to look for someone who specializes in criminal defense and practices in the city or county where your charges are.
