No one wants to be accused of a crime, especially when they are innocent. But if you are accused of a crime, it is important that you get support from friends and family members, as well as seek professional assistance from a lawyer, to help you navigate the challenging time.
You should also become acquainted with what to expect once you are accused.
Understanding The Accusation
Right from the start, you need to understand what being accused of the specific crime means. The accusation might come to you in one of many forms, such as an arrest warrant or a citation. So, you should understand the precise nature of the accusation before anything else. A lawyer can help you understand exactly what the criminal accusation means.
Finding The Right Criminal Defense Lawyer
Finding the right criminal defense lawyer should be one of your first actions. Not only will they guide you through the bewildering maze of criminal law. They will also stand up for your rights, making sure that each legal procedure is properly followed.
Make sure you find a lawyer that has the relevant experience for your type of case and a successful track record of defending clients in similar situations. We will take a look at other things to look for in a lawyer later.
First Court Appearance
Your first court appearance will typically happen shortly after your arrest. This is when you will be officially informed about your charges. Bear in mind, this is not where guilt or innocence is determined. Your first court appearance is for information purposes only.
Bail Process
Depending upon the gravity of the allegations against you, bail might be determined during your first court appearance. Bail acts as financial insurance, assuring your return for further court processes. It does not imply guilt or innocence.
Plea Barring
In subsequent court appearances, you will have a chance to enter your plea: guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Each carries different consequences prevailing contemporaneously and prospectively.
Building Up Defense
Post-plea-barring, you and your lawyer will start building a defense in earnest. This could involve gathering evidence, questioning witnesses, or filing motions to dismiss certain bits of the prosecution’s case. Every minute detail matters here.
Pre-Trial Motions
Pre-trial motions are actions jointly agreed upon by your lawyer and the prosecutors. Mostly, their aim is to fine-tune issues before going to trial. They also decide what evidence should come forth during the trial.
Trial Proceedings
Trial proceedings can take anywhere from a day to several weeks or more. It entirely depends on the complexity of your individual case. But your lawyer will be able to advise you on the likely length of a case such as yours.
Jury Deliberations
Your fate will largely be decided by regular citizens serving as jurors. The jury will analyze all presented evidence before coming to a unanimous decision. This process can be long-winded and unpredictable, so be prepared to look after your mental health during this period.
Post-Trial Processes
Even after having a final verdict, there might be post-trial processes such as appeals or sentencing hearings, if you are found guilty. Therefore, being accused of a crime could turn out to be an extensive affair that necessitates patience and fortitude.
How To Get A Lawyer
When criminal charges are levied against you, it is crucial to have a professional defense lawyer by your side. They can guide you through the complex and often intimidating world of criminal law.
Consider Specializations
Begin by identifying criminal lawyers who specialize in your type of case. This ensures your lawyer is well-versed in the nuances of defenses that work for your specific charge.
Research Potential Lawyers
Before choosing, research potential lawyers or law firms thoroughly. Look for client reviews, success rates, and experience in handling similar cases.
Setup Consultations
Setting up initial consultations with prospective lawyers is key. This provides an opportunity to share details about your case and it can help you assess whether they are right for you.
Make Your Decision
After weighing factors such as a lawyer’s engagement level, the case strategy that they explained during the consultation, and their experience, make your final decision on who you think will represent you best in court.
