Being accused of a crime is something that can potentially change your life forever. The possibility of spending time in jail and losing your freedom are serious consequences that no one would ever be prepared for. Before you get convicted for wrongdoings, you might consider hiring the best criminal defense lawyer to increase your chance of getting the charges against you dropped.
Did you know that according to a study by Pew Research, the U.S. conviction rate for federal crimes is over 99%? While there is a slim chance to get your federal crime charge dismissed, minor offenses like misdemeanors or assault can be dismissed with the help of a knowledgeable lawyer. Criminal defense attorney Christopher J. McCann stresses the importance of securing legal counsel immediately in order to ensure any evidence and witnesses are still in place.
Here are the cases that criminal defense attorneys handle, in case you’re wondering if they are the right type of legal professionals who can help you:
Misdemeanor Offenses
If you have been charged with a misdemeanor offense, it’s crucial to seek the guidance of a criminal defense attorney. Misdemeanor offenses are less serious crimes compared to felonies, but they can still have significant consequences. These offenses can include petty theft, simple assault, trespassing, disorderly conduct, or possession of a small amount of drugs.
While misdemeanors may not carry the same severe penalties as felonies, they can still result in fines, probation, community service, or even short-term incarceration.
Having a criminal conviction on your record can negatively impact your future prospects, such as employment opportunities or housing options so it’s crucial to find a criminal defense attorney who can help you and protect your rights.
Felony Charges
Facing felony charges can have serious and long-lasting consequences, making it crucial to seek the guidance of a criminal defense attorney. Felony charges are considered more severe than misdemeanor offenses and can result in significant penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record.
Felony charges include murder, rape, robbery, drug trafficking, and white-collar crimes like fraud and embezzlement. These crimes are typically deemed more serious due to the potential harm caused to individuals or society as a whole. The complexity and severity of felony cases require the expertise of a skilled criminal defense attorney.
Likewise, embezzlement lawyers know what states consider embezzlement as felonies. They will thoroughly examine the evidence against you, scrutinize the procedures followed by law enforcement, and build a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific case. They will work tirelessly to lower down the penalties or get your charges dropped.
Remember that being charged with a felony doesn’t automatically mean you’re guilty. Hiring a criminal defense attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Drug-Related Crimes
Drug-related crimes encompass a wide range of offenses, including possession, manufacturing, distribution, and trafficking of illegal substances. When charged with drug-related crimes, it’s crucial to hire a criminal defense attorney who can challenge the legality of the search and seizure conducted by law enforcement.
Your lawyer will carefully examine whether the police had probable cause to conduct the search or if they violated your Fourth Amendment rights. He or she will also assess the reliability of any evidence presented by the prosecution, including witness testimonies, lab reports, and surveillance footage.
Since drug-related crimes can carry severe penalties, including imprisonment, fines, and a permanent criminal record, hire a lawyer immediately so that you can achieve a favorable outcome.
Assault and Violent Crimes
Assault and violent crimes involve allegations of physical harm or threats of violence against another person and they can have serious consequences if not handled properly.
When facing assault charges, your attorney will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged incident. They’ll examine any available evidence, such as witness testimonies, surveillance footage, or forensic reports, to uncover the truth and challenge the prosecution’s case.
He or she will also evaluate whether self-defense or other mitigating factors apply to your situation, which could potentially result in reduced charges or a complete dismissal.
White-Collar Offenses
White-collar offenses refer to non-violent crimes typically committed by individuals in professional or business settings. These offenses are often financially motivated and involve deceit, fraud, or embezzlement. Examples of white-collar offenses include insider trading, money laundering, tax evasion, securities fraud, and identity theft.
A skilled criminal defense attorney specializing in white-collar offenses understands the ins and outs of these cases. They can provide you with expert advice and guidance throughout the legal proceedings. They’ll investigate the evidence against you, challenge any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and advocate for your rights in court.
White-collar crimes often involve extensive paper trails, complex financial transactions, and forensic accounting. A criminal defense attorney experienced in white-collar offenses can analyze these records and identify any inconsistencies or errors that could be used to build a strong defense strategy. They’ll work diligently to protect your reputation and find a resolution to your case.
Conclusion
Criminal defense attorneys provide guidance and support to anyone facing crime-related cases. Don’t underestimate the impact of a crime conviction, hire a lawyer who can help you increase the chance of getting the charges against you dropped.
