Sometimes, people find themselves fighting for their freedom in court, protesting their innocence. Most people make an effort to live a moral and safe life away from crimes. Yet somehow, some end up in front of a judge arguing their case. Apart from the seasoned criminals that will spend most of their lives in and out of courtrooms, the majority of people will never have to face a judge. The average person, though, might accidentally commit a crime someday and end up facing prison time depending on the severity of the crime.
In most countries, it is a constitutional right for the government to provide an attorney to anybody charged with a crime. However, there is no promise that the attorney would be a good lawyer. When it comes to dealing with life and freedom, especially in the face of uncertainty, you’ll need a good defense lawyer.
Here are 3 reasons why hiring a good defense lawyer is worth it:
Defense lawyers understand the law
Just like in medicine, there are different branches of law which require lawyers to specialize. Some of these include corporate law, criminal law, divorce law, international law, and property law. Although there is general law, it is always best to hire a lawyer who is an expert in the area you are being charged with. Having a property lawyer, for example, defend a criminal charged with manslaughter would not be wise. Criminal lawyers have an in-depth understanding of the criminal law in the region they practice in. Hiring a specialist is an added advantage to ensure that the defendant is getting the best representation.
They help you prepare before and during the trial
Irrespective of the offense, a good defense lawyer will help in pre-trial preparations. They will do a thorough research through the discovery phase of the case – the severity of the offense, the strengths and weaknesses surrounding the case, chart the best course of action, determine whether to plead guilty or not, gather local knowledge of the presiding judge and how the justice system works in that region, and much more. Of course, one could choose to represent oneself, but unless they are very knowledgeable in these things, they would be missing out on the best kind of legal representation. Defense lawyers even help choreograph a defendant’s response with pre-written scripts and prepare for unforeseen lines of questioning.
They are committed to your case
One of the most important reasons to hire a good defense lawyer is because of their dedication to your case. A court or government appointed lawyer usually works multiple cases at the same time and is not well compensated. With little to no motivation, their work tends to be subpar. But hiring your own means hiring a personalized experience with full commitment until the case is over. Your best interest is what your lawyer will fight for.
Why take a chance on your freedom with an underpaid lawyer or self-representation when good lawyers who are motivated to get the best outcome are available. Lawyers are generally very competitive. Good lawyers certainly are competitive and experienced. They know the legal process in the region, the law, and can sometimes predict the outcome. Hiring them will eliminate any uncertainty of having the best legal representation to argue your case on your behalf.
