Getting charged with any type of crime can change your life for the worst. The steps that you take after being charged with a crime will determine the course of the rest of your life. You may be wondering whether you should hire a criminal lawyer. You should weigh the pros and cons before you hire a criminal lawyer.
Pros
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They Know the Legal System
You have many rights as a citizen. However, prosecutors know that most people do not know that they have rights. Many people also do not know the laws. A criminal lawyer Gold Coast knows the ins and outs of the legal system.
They studied criminal law for several years. They also keep themselves updated with all of the changes that are made in the legal system. They can tell you how to properly pursue your case. They can also present the facts of your case and represent you in court.
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Protect You From Hefty Punishments
The other side will try to come down on you as hard as possible. Their goal is to make sure that you are severely punished. Your criminal lawyer’s job is to help you get off with a lighter punishment. In fact, you may be able to avoid punishment completely if you have an attorney.
There are several defenses that can be used for a crime. For example, if you did not actually commit the crime, then your attorney can prove that you are innocent. If you are accused of murder or manslaughter, then your attorney can argue that you did it in self-defense.
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Take Care of the Paperwork
There is a lot of paperwork that you will have to fill out. If you do not fill out the paperwork the correct way or miss the deadlines, then this can create major problems. Your attorney will help you take care of the paperwork. Not only will they help you fill out, but they will also ensure that you meet all of the deadlines.
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Keep Things Moving Along
You likely want to move on with your life and put this case behind you. The attorney will keep things moving along. They will help you get back to your normal life as soon as you can.
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Help You Save Money
You have to pay to hire an attorney. However, it can cost you more in the long run if you don’t have one. Hiring an attorney can help you save money.
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Provide Emotional Support
A case can take a huge toll on you emotionally. There are things that you may not feel comfortable sharing with other people. Your attorney can provide you with the emotional support that you need.
Cons
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Expensive
Even though hiring an attorney can save you money, it is still expensive for you to hire one. It is a costly process from beginning to the end. The complexity of your case and the lawyer that you choose will determine how much you will end up paying. However, it is a good idea to look at your budget before you hire an attorney.
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They Are Not Always Competent
The attorney that you choose will determine how successful your case will be. There are attorneys that have the education and experience, but they still aren’t competent. That is why it is important for you to do your research before you hire an attorney. You should also ask for references.
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Not 100 Percent Chance for Success
It is much better for you to have an attorney than it is for you to try to handle your case without one. However, your lawyer cannot guarantee that you will have success. You could still be fined or imprisoned. Any attorney that guarantees that you will win your case is not being truthful.
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Long Wait Time
Your case has to be handled as quickly as possible. However, good attorneys are often busy with other cases. That is why you may have to wait a long time before you are able to meet with an attorney.
Time is of the essence. There are also some firms that have paralegals do most of the work. You need an attorney who has the time to dedicate to your case.
