Should You Represent Yourself If Charged With a Crime?
If you are charged with any crime, it is a serious matter. Deciding whether to represent yourself or hire an attorney can mean the difference between dropped charges or jail time. Before proceeding on your own in a criminal case, here are some points you should know.
Self-Representation vs. Attorney Representation in Criminal Cases
Your Rights
Under federal and state criminal law, you have the right to represent yourself or have an lawyer represent you. The Wisconsin Public Defender’s Office provides Sauk County residents with free legal representation in criminal cases. If you do not qualify for their services or cannot afford a lawyer but want one, ask the court to appoint a lawyer to represent you.
Why You Should Use an Attorney
Hiring a lawyer gives you access to a trained and licensed legal professional who is dedicated to being your advocate. Your criminal law attorney will investigate and evaluate your case, explain the options, and recommend the best approach to resolve the situation. They can negotiate a plea that protects your interests by getting charges dropped, eliminating jail time, and minimizing fines, or they can prepare and present your case at trial before a judge or jury.
When You Might Represent Yourself
You might want to represent yourself if the charge is a minor offense that does not involve violence and does not carry jail time or result in a license suspension. If you do not hire a lawyer, still consult with a criminal law attorney before pleading guilty to learn the penalties and consequences of your plea.
The attorneys at LaRowe Gerlach Taggart LLP in Reedsburg, WI, offer more than 150 years of combined experience in criminal law matters. From a single consultation to full representation in a trial, they provide high-quality legal services to protect each client’s interests. Get the strong and effective advocacy you need when facing criminal charges. Call (608) 524-8231 in Reedsburg or (608) 643-3391 in Sauk City to schedule a consultation. For more about their legal practice, visit them online.
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