When Should I Hire a Lawyer for a Criminal Case?

According to the Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, each and every person who is facing criminal charges has the right to legal counsel. This protection is so important that the state will provide a court-appointed attorney if the defendant is unable to afford one.

If you are facing criminal charges, you need an attorney on your side. A criminal defense lawyer can guide you through each guide you through criminal proceedings, protect your rights and interests, and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

Why You Should Avoid Self-Representation

It is easy to believe that representing yourself in a criminal case would be a simple task. You can read lots of information on criminal laws, Washington court procedures, and case strategies that may seem helpful when preparing for trial.

However, there is a significant gap between what you can learn on paper and what a criminal case is like in practice. Criminal defense attorneys have years of experience helping people navigate the complex justice system and defending cases in front of judges and juries.

The world of criminal law is very dense and extremely complex. There are many important considerations that you will need to weigh when determining the best way to handle your case. All of these factors can make self-representation virtually impossible.

Your lawyer will have a skilled, external perspective that he or she can leverage to support your interests and protect your rights. He or she will have the resources and time to fully investigate your case and craft a compelling case for the courtroom.

What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You

If you are facing criminal charges, it is important to hire a lawyer who can represent your side of the story. Criminal defense lawyers perform several important functions to support your case, including the following:

• Objectively Assessing Your Case: Your lawyer will have the experience and knowledge necessary to carefully evaluate your case and provide an objective assessment of this situation. This perspective can be very important when deciding how to handle your case.
• Negotiating Plea Deals: Depending on your circumstances, a plea deal may be in your best interest. Your lawyer can negotiate with the prosecutor to arrange for reduced charges and lesser sentences if necessary.
• Navigating Court Customs and Procedures: Many court systems have unwritten rules and customs that you may not be familiar with. Your attorney will understand these requirements, help you prepare for each stage of your case, and can leverage this knowledge in your case’s favor.
• Helping You Cope with the Process: The criminal justice process can take a major emotional toll on the defendant. Your attorney can help you cope with feelings of embarrassment, anxiety, and fear that are common during these proceedings.

Speak to a Criminal Defense Lawyer to Represent Your Case

If you are facing criminal charges, you need an attorney on your side. A lawyer has the skills, experience, and knowledge to protect your rights during the proceedings and ensure that you do not say or do anything that would otherwise harm your case.

As soon as possible following your arrest, consult with a Washington criminal defense attorney who can represent your case. Your attorney will carefully assess your situation and work with you to identify the best pathway to achieve the optimal outcome for your future.