Criminal charges can come with serious consequences, including extended prison sentences and lengthy probationary periods. It's in your best interest to have a defense attorney on your side as you navigate the justice system. 

5 Reasons to Hire a Defense Attorney

1. Advocacy

If you're up against criminal charges, it's easy to feel like you've got no one on your side fighting for you. But, in the United States, you are innocent until proven otherwise, and a defense attorney understands how important it is that you have a legal advocate at every step. When you hire a lawyer, you are getting the skill of a legal professional who will ensure that your rights are protected, and you have the necessary representation to tackle the charges against you.

2. Negotiation

In some criminal law cases, there will be room for negotiation. You may be able to plead guilty to a lesser offense and avoid more severe penalties. This is where your attorney comes in, speaking on your behalf and negotiating solutions that look out for you and your future.

3. Investigation

Many criminal cases require further investigation by third-party professionals. The defense attorney on your case can spearhead just such an investigation, hiring experts to come in and find out more about the incident in question. What they find could be beneficial to your case, resulting in compelling new evidence that strengthens your claim and casts doubt on the prosecution's narrative.

4. Paperwork

Any legal case involves a massive amount of paperwork. All of these documents need to be completed to the letter of the law and filed with the appropriate courts. Your defense attorney handles these aspects so you can start the process of attaining a speedy, impartial adjudication of your case.

5. Appeals

A guilty verdict is not the end of your legal options; in fact, in many ways, it's just the beginning. You have a right to appeal a guilty verdict and start working toward a new trial. Your lawyer will launch an appeal on your behalf and dedicate themselves to rebuilding your case, discovering new evidence, and working toward a more favorable outcome.

Thomas W. Smothers, Attorney At Law, is a criminal defense attorney serving the High Point, NC, area. Call (336) 885-1240, visit his firm's website, or connect with them on Facebook or Twitter to schedule a consultation. Trust attorney Smothers and his team to give you the quality legal counsel you need to take on the charges against you.