If you’ve been accused of a crime, police and prosecutors may try to convince you that exercising your right to an attorney will only make things worse. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. In truth, a criminal law attorney is the only person in the judicial process dedicated to protecting your interests. Below are a few ways your lawyer will help if you’re facing criminal charges.

How a Criminal Law Attorney Can Help After an Arrest

1. Explaining the Law

Effectively defending yourself in a criminal case depends on understanding the charges against you. Drawing on their understanding of the statutes, a criminal law attorney will carefully explain the law, including the circumstances that may qualify for additional penalties.

2. Identifying the Best Legal Defense

The justice system provides several avenues through which you can defend yourself against criminal charges. Your attorney will outline all of your legal options and help you choose the best path forward, based on their knowledge of the law and experience with similar cases.

3. Protecting Your Rights

When making an arrest, law enforcement officers must follow strict guidelines designed to protect the defendant’s rights. Your attorney will identify any violations and challenge evidence they believe investigators collected unlawfully.

4. Negotiating With Prosecutors

The vast majority of criminal cases end in plea bargains, but prosecutors typically won’t negotiate with defendants who represent themselves. However, a good defense lawyer will leverage the risk and expense of a lengthy trial to arrange the best possible agreement for your situation.

For 130 years, the legal team at MacVean, Lewis, Sherwin & McDermott, P.C. has provided zealous representation to defendants throughout New York’s Hudson Valley. They take a personalized approach to every case, with legal solutions tailored to the unique circumstances of your charges. Follow them on Facebook and visit their website or call (845) 343-3000 to arrange a consultation with a criminal law attorney today.