9 Things Your Defense Attorney Does Behind The Scenes To Help Eliminate Or Lessen Your Charges
Posted on: 19 June 2015
When you hire a criminal defense attorney, you may only consider the work that he or she will perform inside the courtroom. However, the majority of the defense lawyer's work is done behind the scenes. Here are nine things that your defense attorney completes outside the courtroom to help eliminate or lessen your charges:
1. Document Reviews
To build your case, your attorney reviews a myriad of legal documents, such as emergency call transcripts, police records, witness reports and lab test results.
2. Meetings with Private Investigators
Attorneys often hire private investigators to gather more evidence to support your innocence.
3. Witness Interviews
Your attorney may interview witnesses that were present when the incident occurred. He or she will look for discrepancies that could unseat the allegations against you.
4. Witness Preparation
Once witnesses with supportive testimonies have been identified, your attorney will prepare them to take the stand. He or she may conduct pseudo-interrogations with them prior to the trial or hearing so they will know what to expect from the prosecution.
5. Plea Bargains
Your attorney will be working to ensure that your case receives the best possible outcome. In situations where you may incur a hefty sentence, your attorney may meet with prosecutors to negotiate a lesser penalty or charge.
6. Research and Development
To win your case, your attorney will establish an effective defense strategy. Information from prior cases and rulings will be used to build your defense.
7. Filing a Request for Immunity
If there is good evidence supporting your innocence, your attorney may file a request for immunity to have your case heard by a judge at a hearing before the case goes to trial. The judge is able to grant immunity if he feels that the charges are unwarranted.
8. Defendant Preparation
If this is the first time you have been charged with a crime, you may feel lost in the process. However, your defense attorney will keep you informed of what to expect. In addition, he or she will prepare you by guiding you concerning proper court conduct and attire.
9. Filing Court Documents
Before you enter the courtroom, your attorney will have already submitted documents on your behalf. If these documents are not submitted correctly and in a timely manner, their acceptance and the outcome of your case could be jeopardized.
Often, the most recognized work of a criminal defense attorney is presented in a courtroom. However, the work he or she performs away from court helps ensure your success. The hours spent on your behalf help the attorney maintain a winning record of defense.
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