When people are looking to serve some time in prison or have the prospect of a hefty penalty, it is strongly advised to seek out the help of a criminal defense lawyer. A legal professional is trained to recognize the special aspects in each case and work with clients accordingly. Professionals like criminal defense lawyer Joe Tacopina and other experts know that there are a variety of jobs a well-trained legal representative should do in order to achieve a desirable outcome.
Negotiate
Lawyers are often able to negotiate deals between the prosecutors and the defendants. These deals are commonly referred to as plea bargains, and they are designed to either lessen the sentences or eliminate charges brought against accused individuals. Prosecutors are usually not willing to make these kinds of deals with people representing themselves, hence the reason it is advantageous to have a lawyer.
Construct a Good Sentencing Program
In the event that individuals are found guilty, lawyers can craft a sentencing program that will help them do better and stay out of the legal system. For instance, if someone is to receive prison time for drug offenses, the lawyer can have the program set up so that the individual only serves a partial prison sentence and then spends the rest of the time in a drug treatment facility so as not to repeat the offense again.
Point Out Unknown Rules and Regulations
Many rules and regulations are often buried within other regulations, and sometimes they are based on previous court opinions. Many people will not even know where to look for the rules and regulations that specifically apply to their cases. For instance, if an individual is representing him or herself, he or she may never know if the search that was conducted of his or her property was legal or not without having an understanding of the nuances surrounding the law. Professionals in the legal system can help with these specific laws.
Successfully Navigate Cases through the Legal System
Along with the numerous state and local rules that must be followed, there are also some unwritten rules. For example, some prosecutors may be more lenient than others and more than likely to allow plea bargains to be negotiated, and others like to give defendants the maximum penalty possible. Lawyers will know which prosecutors to deal with and can advise individuals about this so that they can save time and speak to only the right people.
Gather Witnesses and Evidence
Some witnesses might be unwilling to provide statements about an incident that transpired in fear they will be affected negatively. Witnesses may feel more comfortable talking to a lawyer because they will be confident that the lawyer will know the law well enough to provide them protection from any negative legal ramifications. Additionally, lawyers know where to find professional experts that can help to discredit the prosecution, and they know how to gather evidence that will bolster their own argument.
With highly trained lawyers in their corner, individuals stand a better chance of seeing outcomes they desire, letting them overcome their past deeds with their reputation intact.
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