Being accused of a crime that you did not commit can be a trying time for you and your loved ones. Depending on the nature of the crime of which you are accused, your standing in the community and your family name may fall into disrepute. The temptation to clear your name can be close to overwhelming, but going about things in the wrong way can actually do more harm.  That’s why you should always speak to a lawyer before saying anything on record. 

Remember, you do not have to answer any questions or speak to the duty solicitor in a police interview. Even if you feel like you are holding up proceedings or not being helpful towards the law officers trying to move things along, by speaking to a criminal defense lawyer first you will gain perspective on how other players in your case may act, which in turn could drive you to handle your responses in a way that is befitting of your defense. An arrest warrant does not make you guilty, only the sentencing of a judge can make you guilty – try to bear this in mind if you are ever caught up in the initial stages of a criminal case (speak to a criminal defense lawyer in LA for info).

What kind of charges are included in criminal defense?

There are many different types of criminal defense cases. However, in general, many criminal defense lawyers tend to focus on handling cases that revolve around any of the following main types of accusation:

  • Public order offences 
  • Possession of weapons 
  • Actual Bodily Harm (ABH)
  • Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH)
  • Possession of controlled drugs
  • Criminal matters involving a vehicle 
  • Burglary or handling of stolen property
  • Attempted murder / murder / manslaughter
  • Fraud (this could include cybercrime) 

What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

Criminal defense is a wide area of law, meaning that criminal defense lawyers will often choose a career that focuses on just one of all the different types of defense. For example, types of defense could include drug defense or a defense for Driving Under the Influence (DUI). If you are near the state of Illinois you can rest assured that dui attorney in Springfield il can handle your case with confidence. No matter the stage to which your case has progressed, a criminal defense lawyer will be able to handle your claim and direct your defense.

Stages of criminal defense include:

  • Initial stages (you are made aware of the accusation)
  • Your arrest by the authorities
  • The police investigation  
  • Official criminal charges are made 
  • Your case is heard in court and you are sentenced, 
  • Any appeals and other related post-trial matters