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Atlanta Criminal Defense Lawyers > Blog > Criminal Defense > Why You Always Need an Attorney for a Criminal Case

Why You Always Need an Attorney for a Criminal Case

Many people wonder if they need an attorney when they are charged with a crime. They worry about not being able to afford legal representation, and some believe that they can defend themselves successfully. When a person is charged with a crime, they need an attorney. The answer is that simple. Any person who wishes to have a positive outcome in a criminal case needs to be represented by an expert.

Books Do Not Help

There are many things that can be found in books. A person can search the Internet for almost anything. Unfortunately, the practice of criminal law is quite intricate, and not all of the information needed to mount a strong defense can be found through research. Much the same as a person would not operate on themselves, they should not represent themselves in a court of law.

What an Attorney Can Do

There is a misconception that the only thing an attorney will do is represent you in court. This is not the case. Criminal defense lawyers do much more than stand in court and question witnesses. An experienced criminal defense attorney can:

  • Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges and lesser sentences. Prosecutors tend to be more cooperative with attorneys than they are with defendants.

  • Come up with sentencing options that are matched to a client’s specific needs.

  • Provide resources for clients who are dealing with stress, anxiety and fear.

  • Provide defendants with a dose of reality. Many people who are arrested catastrophize the event in their mind and think of the worst possible outcomes. An attorney can provide a realistic view of the possibilities.

  • Spend a necessary amount of time on a case. Defendants often do not have the time needed to come up with a strong defense. An attorney does this for a living.

  • Gather information from the prosecution’s witnesses. It is illegal for a defendant to contact witnesses, as it may be seen as a form of intimidation. A defense attorney can do this and gain valuable information.

  • Help a defendant determine if it is wise to go to trial. In some cases, it makes better sense for a defendant to accept a plea deal.

Being arrested is stressful. Being charged with a crime, no matter how minor, causes anxiety. Many people bury their heads in their sand and hope everything works out on its own. The truth of the matter is that this doesn’t happen. When a person is charged with a crime, they need to expert assistance of an experienced criminal defense attorney.

If you have been charged with a crime in DeKalb County, reach out to our team of attorneys. We will help you schedule an appointment for a free case evaluation at which time we will advise you of the options available to you. Call today or browse our website for more information about our firm and the types of cases we handle.

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