Should you find yourself on the wrong side of the law, be sure to consult a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.
Most lawyers will agree that time is of the essence. The criminal system is known to be complicated. It would be advantageous if you had someone on your side who can act with your best interests in mind.
How Much Trouble Are You In?
The crime you are charged with will determine the amount of misfortune you find yourself facing. Major crimes will carry with them a very severe punishment. Less harsh crimes can be dealt with expediently. This can avoid the costly and lengthy process of a trial. Let’s look at three groups of crimes:
Misdemeanors
Minor cases fall under this category. Rulings for these crimes can differ from state to state. It’s essential to make sure you have a good defense lawyer for these types of offenses.
A DUI (Driving Under the Influence) falls under this category. Your case is a misdemeanor if you are a first offender, or you didn’t injure or kill anyone. Again, a good lawyer will ensure that you get the best deal.
Physical battery, shoplifting, and domestic abuse also fall under this class, depending on the severity of the misdeed.
Infractions
If you break a minor law, it’s an infraction. For example, jay-walking or parking in a no-parking zone. An offender will usually get a ticket which they will have to settle within the prescribed time. A lawyer is probably not necessary in these circumstances unless there’s some legal compilation.
Felonies
These are the more grave crimes such as homicide, kidnapping, aggravated assault, and sexual assault. These crimes are incredibly extreme in nature and will probably result in a jail sentence. You’ll need the best legal defense you can get in these cases.
Let the Punishment Fit the Crime
The more weighty the crime, the more severe the punishment. Incarceration usually awaits those charged with a felony. Your legal defense will try to get you the most reduced sentence they can.
For misdemeanors, a compelling legal defense can get you out of a jail sentence by coming up with deals that the judge approves of, providing this is the first offense. Your lawyer may even get you onto a Diversion program, which is essentially a rehabilitation program.
It all depends on the circumstances surrounding your transgression. For example, for a DUI, where the blood alcohol level is not too high, you might be able to attend classes, do community service, and pay a fine, thus avoiding a prison sentence.
A DUI class Tampa, is one such class that you could attend if you live in that area. Most places will have options. There are even online DUI classes. It all hinges on what the judge will agree to.
Take Action
The key to dealing with a crime that you may have committed is to seek legal representation as soon as possible. The competence of your lawyer can depend on your financial situation.
Good lawyers are costly. In the USA, it’s your right to have a defense lawyer, which can be provided by the court if you don’t have the means to hire your own counsel. You can apply for a court-appointed lawyer at your arraignment. Your advocacy is crucial to ensuring that you have the best outcome possible.