If you’re wondering if it’s time to hire a Winston-Salem criminal defense attorney, chances are you already need one. It’s essential to hire an attorney as soon as possible, ideally before the authorities file charges. The sooner you hire a criminal defense lawyer, the more they can do to protect your rights and help you fight your charges.
Why You Should Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney as Soon as Possible
The sooner you hire a defense attorney, the sooner they can do the following.
Protecting Your Rights Throughout the Case
The police may question you even before you’re an official suspect to build their case against you. If you don’t have legal representation during questioning, you might say something that hurts your defense. Your defense attorney can also protect you from intrusive or unlawful questions and make sure the authorities respect your rights.
Having More Time to Build Your Defense
The sooner you hire a criminal defense lawyer, the longer they have to investigate the case, gather evidence, and look for weaknesses in the prosecution’s argument. All criminal cases move quickly, but this is particularly important in federal trials, as the Speedy Trial Act says trials must start within 70 days of your arraignment in most circumstances. Waiting too long to hire an attorney can make it harder for your lawyer to find evidence to exonerate you or mitigate your charges or penalties.
Influencing Charging Decisions
In some cases, your attorney can affect the charges you face before the authorities can act. If the police or prosecutors are still deciding whether to proceed with their investigation, your attorney can present evidence or arguments in favor of dropping or reducing your charges.
Negotiating for Reduced Charges or Alternative Sentences
Prosecutors often prefer to resolve criminal cases without the time and expense of a trial. Trials are also unpredictable, and a prosecutor may not want to risk a not-guilty verdict from a jury. By hiring an attorney as soon as possible, they can argue for reduced charges in exchange for a plea agreement or a pre-trial diversion program.
Making the Case for Bail
Bail hearings often happen quickly after an arrest, and you don’t want to spend any more time in jail than necessary. Your lawyer can make the case for a lower bond amount or fewer restrictions on your release while you wait for your case to play out.
Exploiting Improper Handling of Evidence
The police and prosecutors must follow strict rules on handling evidence if they want to use it at trial. Your attorney can determine if they violated procedures and then argue to have any improperly handled evidence dismissed. This is huge because dismissed evidence can lead to reduced or dropped charges.
Representing You in Front of Police or Prosecutors
You will likely face intense pressure from the police or prosecutors to confess your crime or agree to a plea deal. However, a confession or plea agreement may not be in your best interest, particularly if the authorities have a weak case. Your lawyer can represent you during any interactions with the police or prosecutors and protect you from undue pressure.
Preparing You for a Possible Arrest
If you hire an attorney before the police take you into custody, they can prepare you for your arrest. Your lawyer can tell you what to expect, what to do (or not do) when the police arrive, and possibly arrange for you to turn yourself in under more controlled circumstances.
Why Hire Greenwood Law for Your Criminal Case in Winston-Salem?
While it’s critical to get legal help as soon as possible, your choice of representation can have a considerable effect on the outcome of your case. Attorney Dylan W. Greenwood and his colleagues at Greenwood Law know what you’re going through and can provide the skilled, aggressive representation you need. As a former public defender, Dylan deeply understands what’s at stake and the importance of having a robust defense. Dylan has also received numerous honors for his services, including being named a Super Lawyers “Rising Star” for six straight years and Top 40 Under 40 honors from the National Trial Lawyers.
One of the hallmarks of our firm is the way we treat our clients with compassion and respect. We know you’re facing an intense situation, and we want to make the legal process as painless as possible. We’re here to answer your questions, explain your charges and the legal procedures in your case, challenge the prosecution’s case, and advocate for your rights in court.
Contact a Winston-Salem Criminal Defense Lawyer Now
Greenwood Law handles a wide range of criminal cases in Winston-Salem, and we’re ready to discuss your case whenever you’re ready. Call now or complete our contact form for a confidential consultation with our Winston-Salem criminal defense attorneys, and let us protect your rights with precision and power.