What Does A Criminal Defense Lawyer Do To Help Clients

By Adriana Noton


When charged with a crime it is vital to listen to the arresting officers and assert your Miranda rights. You do not have to give any statements to the police. You do not have to say anything. You have the right to an attorney. This right may be the most important part of that well known spiel. Attorneys are those who have attended an accredited law school and passed the state's bar examination. They will know the laws your state well and be familiar with cases that are similar to your own. It is extremely important to talk to a lawyer if you are ever charged with a crime. Many people, upon finding the need for an attorney, will ask themselves what does a criminal defense lawyer do? This is an important question to ask and the answer makes for a more informed consumer. It can also be extremely interesting and a look into how the criminal justice system actually operates.

People who cannot afford an attorney are appointed one by the state at no cost. This is how important having an attorney representing you is. There are few things the state will give you for free. An attorney is one of them. However, most public defenders are newly graduated law students or are too overburdened with a heavy case load to give each case their full attention.

The criminal lawyer can choose to specialize in the area of criminal justice. Many have worked previously as either prosecutors for the state or public defenders. They have an understanding of how the court operates and how business runs from day to day. Most importantly, they may know the court personnel, the prosecutors, and the judges quite well. In many cases they have worked with these people in the past and built a rapport with them.

Most criminal defense attorneys spend at least part of their time inside the courtroom. Often they can appear on behalf of their clients and thus saving them from the stress of a court appearance. Because they spend a lot of time inside courtrooms and in in front of judges, criminal defense attorneys become comfortable working in this environment and well versed in how the system works.

All lawyers spend a great deal of time on the phone. It is said that some lawyers can do more with a phone in an hour than some do in the courtroom all week. Phone calls can be an important part of a lawyer's day. They can negotiate for their clients on the phone and get results from the comfort of their office. Attorneys are also spending an increasing amount of time handling electronic correspondence with clients and other members of the legal team.

Their time in the office is also spent meeting with clients and potential clients. Many attorneys offer a free initial consultation. This consultation is important in bringing in new clients and the attorneys take these meetings seriously.

Attorneys are also required to keep their knowledge of the law and court precedent up to date. This ensures that the lawyers are well versed in the most current cases. Asking a lawyer if they belong to any professional organizations like the American Bar Association or take any continuing education classes is a great idea.

When meeting with an attorney the first time do not be afraid to ask them that important questions: "What does a criminal defense lawyer do?". A qualified and confident attorney will enjoy explaining how they fight for their clients and the success they have had in the past.




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