If you have been arrested, or are under investigation, the idea of going to jail is likely filling you with fear and dread you’ve never experienced before. You may be wondering what will happen to your family, your career, and the rest of your life after this.
A criminal conviction can lead to multiple consequences, especially if you’re charged with more than one felony. Prison time, high fines, restrictions on your personal liberties, loss of your career, and long-term damage to your reputation are just some of the things that just one criminal conviction will bring.
This is your life, and the stakes are high. That’s why it’s vital to have an experienced defense attorney to defend you to give you the best chance of the best possible results.
What A Criminal Defense Lawyer Does
The first thing an attorney will meet with you to discuss your case, ask questions and ask for as many details as you can provide. By asking detailed questions, he or she can get a better idea of possible defenses, as well as strengths and weaknesses of the case.
After your meeting, he or she will conduct an investigation into the case, which will include:
- Police reports
- Speaking to police about procedures and whether they were properly followed
- Witnesses
- The prosecution’s case
- Expert witnesses, if needed
All of these things and more are used to gather information to build a strong defense, and find gaps in the prosecutor’s case to refute it. This could also involve an expert witness or an independent laboratory for evidence analysis.
Going To Court
Once the investigation is completed and the lawyer has built your defense, he or she will accompany you to court. Your lawyer will participate in jury selection, finding the best possible jurors for your case, and removing any that may have a specific bias against your or may be detrimental to your case.
The lawyer will also defend you against the charges you’re facing, cross-examine any witnesses for the prosecution, and demonstrate to the jury that the prosecution failed to meet the required burden of proof using the gathered evidence and other information. You’ll also be represented in the sentencing phase of the trial, if there is one, and will work to convince the judge and jury to limit the amount of jail time, and discuss incarceration alternatives.
Finding The Right Legal Counsel The First Time
Under the Constitution, every US citizen is entitled to legal representation. It’s up to you to ensure that you have it.
Any lawyer can claim to represent you in a criminal case. But are they the right one, or are they no different than using a court-appointed lawyer? In Maine, using a court-appointed lawyer for your criminal defense means you’ll be at the mercy of an ad-hoc system of contract attorneys. These are attorneys who have large caseloads and won’t take the time to understand your case or work for your defense. Their focus is moving cases along quickly, and may encourage you to plead guilty, even if you aren’t, or you’re guilty of a lesser charge.
Don’t do that.
It’s better to get the right lawyer the first time than to hire a second lawyer to straighten out the first lawyer’s disaster. An experienced attorney who understands the law, the courts, the prosecutors involved in your case, as well as the judges is the one who will build your defense and work for the best possible outcome for your case.
While your court case may be months away, an investigation takes time, as does a defense. That’s why it’s important to find the right criminal defense lawyer as soon as you can.
Criminal Defense In Gorham, ME
Criminal charges can lead to damage to your reputation, fracture your relationships, and harm your career, particularly if your criminal offense requires you to register as a sex offender. We understand the catastrophic effect that a conviction can have on your life and your livelihood. We will fight to protect your reputation, your record, and your future.
If you or a loved one has been charged with a crime, you need an experienced Maine defense lawyer with strong skills to give you the best chance at trial. Every case is different, and finding someone who has the skills and experience to handle your Maine criminal case.
Call Peter W. Evans today (207) 747-5114 today, or contact us online to schedule an appointment for your consultation.