Facing criminal charges can be a difficult experience to navigate and, if you have been arrested, you should hire a criminal defense attorney to help. While you may think you can handle your defense without aid, there are several advantages to working with a legal professional. Below are just a few reasons you should ask an attorney to help defend you.

4 Ways a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help You

1. They Have Knowledge of the Legal System

Perhaps the most important reason to hire a criminal defense attorney is to benefit from their knowledge of the laws in your area. An experienced attorney will be familiar with the laws that apply to your specific case, which gives them a better understanding of what it takes to defend against the charges. There may be laws, recent court cases, or other statutes that can benefit you, which your lawyer will use for your defense.

2. They Are Familiar With the Prosecutor

A defense attorney in any given area regularly works with prosecutors. As they become familiar with one another, prosecutors and defense lawyers learn how to communicate with each other, making negotiations run more smoothly. While the prosecutor in your case may be unwilling to compromise directly with you, the same may not be true when it comes to dealing with your lawyer.

3. They Can Obtain a More Favorable Outcome 

A lawyer may be able to obtain a more favorable outcome in your case. Criminal charges can be dismissed, reduced, or result in an acquittal or a conviction. A legal representative working on your behalf may be able to get your charges dismissed if the prosecution doesn’t have a strong case. If the case does go to trial, your lawyer may be able to negotiate for a reduction of the charges, or for a reduced sentence. 

4. They Will Help You Understand the Charges

If you have never faced criminal charges before, you may feel stressed and unnerved by the situation. Your attorney can help you understand the legal process, difficult jargon, and how the charges filed by the prosecution will affect you. This can help you make decisions based on facts rather than making poor choices out of fear.

Criminal charges carry frightening connotations, but a criminal defense attorney can provide aid. If you’re facing charges in New Haven or Litchfield County, a consultation with The Law Office of Gregory G. St. John, LLC can help you get a better grasp of your situation. Their legal team will go over the charges with you and help you make better legal choices. They have been serving the Waterbury, CT, area for nearly 20 years, and they have the correct legal knowledge and familiarity with area prosecutors to help your case. To schedule a consultation, visit their website or call (203) 759-0240.