If you’ve been arrested and criminal charges are being filed against you, it’s to your advantage to consult with a criminal defense lawyer right away. You’ll want to at least consult with if not retain a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible for several reasons. The following are three of the most important things a criminal defense lawyer can accomplish early on in your case:
1. Negotiate a Dismissal.
A criminal defense lawyer will be able to spot fundamental problems with your case that could result in a dismissal. An attorney can then contact the prosecutor and possibly have your charges dismissed before they are even filed or your case begins. This is much more difficult to accomplish if your case is already going through the court system.
2. Avoid Implicating Department Policies
If your prosecutor’s office has a “no plea bargain” policy for the charges you’re facing, a criminal defense lawyer may be able to circumvent this disadvantage early on. It’s possible your attorney could contact the prosecutor before your charge is authorized to arrange for a different charge that doesn’t carry a “no plea bargain” policy.
3. Negotiate Plea Bargains
A criminal defense lawyer may be able to negotiate with the prosecutor to obtain a favorable plea bargain before the authorization of any charges against you.
These are just three reasons it’s important to consult with a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you’re facing criminal charges. Delays in obtaining defense can definitely work to your disadvantage, while receiving legal counsel right away can work to your advantage as your case progresses through the court system.