A criminal defense lawyer is a lawyer (or attorney) who defends a person who has been charged with a crime. A criminal defense lawyer may work in a private practice or may be a public defender.
The role of a criminal defense lawyer is to protect the rights of the accused and to ensure that they receive a fair trial. A criminal defense lawyer will investigate the case, interview witnesses, and review evidence to build a defense for their client.
A criminal defense lawyer may also negotiate with prosecutors to have charges reduced or dropped. If a case goes to trial, a criminal defense lawyer will represent their client in court and work to get the best possible outcome.
Here are five ways a criminal defense lawyer protects their client’s rights:
1. They Ensure That Their Client Receives a Fair Trial
A criminal defense lawyer is responsible for ensuring that their client receives a fair trial. This includes making sure that the accused is not discriminated against based on race, gender, or other factors.
The lawyer will also make sure that the accused understands their rights and that the prosecution is following all applicable laws. The defense lawyer will also make sure that all evidence is properly presented and that their client is not subjected to any unfair tactics or strategies.
2. They Investigate the Case and Gather Evidence
A criminal defense lawyer will investigate the case and gather evidence to build a defense for their client. This includes interviewing witnesses, reviewing police reports, and obtaining physical evidence. The lawyer will also review any statements made by the accused, as well as any other relevant documents.
The lawyer will then use this information to create a strong defense for their client. This includes cross-examining witnesses, introducing evidence, and making legal arguments in court.
3. They Interview Witnesses
A criminal defense lawyer will interview witnesses to gain a better understanding of the case. This includes speaking with the accused, as well as any other individuals who may have witnessed the alleged crime. The lawyer will ask questions to gain a better understanding of the events that occurred and to determine if there are any inconsistencies in the witness’s statements.
The lawyer will also use this information to build a defense for their client. This includes questioning the credibility of the witness’s statements and introducing evidence that could contradict the witness’s testimony.
4. They Negotiate with Prosecutors
Criminal defense lawyers can negotiate with prosecutors to have charges reduced or dropped. They can present mitigating evidence to the prosecutor that may lessen the charges and punishment. They can also explain to the prosecutor the reasons why a plea bargain should be offered to the defendant.
5. They Represent their Client in Court
Criminal defense lawyers play a critical role in court. They are responsible for presenting the defendant’s case and presenting evidence to support their client’s innocence or to reduce their sentence. They will cross-examine witnesses, make legal arguments, and object to evidence presented by the prosecution. They are also responsible for ensuring that the defendant’s rights are protected throughout the trial.
Get Help from Criminal Defense Lawyers in La Plata, Maryland
A criminal defense lawyer is responsible for protecting their client’s rights. They do this by ensuring that their client receives a fair trial, by investigating the case, by preparing for trial, and by representing their client in court. A criminal defense lawyer is an important part of our justice system and plays a vital role in protecting the rights of the accused.
If you find yourself in a legal dilemma, it is prudent to seek the guidance of a seasoned criminal defense lawyer. That is why we are here to help. Hennessy Law, LLC focuses on protecting our client’s rights. With 50 years of experience, we provide professional and compassionate assistance in our zealous representation of our clients. We practice personal injury and criminal defense law in Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Virginia. If you’re looking for a criminal defense lawyer, contact us online, call us at (301)934-6400, or visit us at our office at 103 Centennial St. K La Plata, MD 20646.