Criminal defense lawyers specialize in the defense of people and organizations charged with criminal activity. Some criminal defense lawyers are privately retained, while others are employed by the different jurisdictions with criminal courts for appointment to represent public defenders.

Criminal defense lawyers fulfill many vital roles during the course of a criminal case. They are responsible for defending an individual charged with a crime. Additionally, they speak on the client’s behalf.

Some of the procedures that criminal defense lawyers are involved in include:

Assignment of the case

Criminal defense lawyers may be contacted directly by the defendant or may be assigned the case by the court. They can be appointed cases by local, state or federal courts, or hired by private firms. Some criminal defense lawyers have an independent legal office that they man themselves.

Interview about the case

Typically, criminal defense lawyers try to get as many details about a case as possible when they meet with a client. By asking specific questions about the case, they can learn about probable defenses, strengths, and weaknesses about the case.

The investigation into the case

After interviewing a client about the case, a criminal defense lawyer will further investigate the case to determine any potential ways of acquitting the defendant. This often includes questioning police about the processes utilized in conjunction with the case. It may also include talking to witnesses who have information about the case and collecting information about the case.

Examination of Evidence

Criminal defense lawyers examine the evidence against a defendant by carefully studying the facts and the theories of the case. They may have evidence autonomously tested. Additionally, they may examine the evidence to determine if there are any legal theories that work against the conviction of their client.

Choosing the Jury

Criminal defense lawyers assist with choosing a jury.

Plea Bargaining

Criminal defense lawyers also take part in discussing the status of a particular case and negotiating with the prosecutor regarding any plea bargain. They may be able to help secure a positive deal for the defendant that will have charges or penalties reduced.

Participation in the Trial

During the trial, criminal defense lawyers examine witnesses, cross-examine the state’s witnesses and try to convince the jury that the prosecution has failed to meet its burden of proof.

Sentencing

Criminal defense lawyers can represent the defendant if the individual is sentenced for a crime. They do this by offering factors that can help limit the amount of jail time.