What Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Do?

Maybe you are in need of a criminal defense attorney but aren’t exactly sure what they do or how to find one. Knowing the job requirements of a criminal defense attorney is extremely important so that you can determine how to pick the right one. 

If you are going to trial as a defendant, it’s imperative you find a good criminal defense attorney who can stick up for you and give you all the details you need about your trial. Learn more about what criminal defense attorneys do and the traits you should look for when choosing an attorney. 

What Is the Role of a Criminal Defense Attorney?

A defense counsel or defense attorney is hired to represent the accused after he or she has been charged with a crime. If the person cannot afford a criminal defense attorney, a public defender will be assigned to them. The defense attorney is the only representative of the accused during all court proceedings and all legal processes. 

Whether the criminal defense attorney is private or court-appointed, they will have the same duties and responsibilities to you. The benefit of a private lawyer instead of a public defender, however, is that a hired lawyer will have more time and resources to dedicate to you. 

Some of the main duties of a defense lawyer include:

• Researching the facts
• Investigating cases against their clients
• Negotiating deals with the prosecutors
• Trying to reduce bail, charges, and sentences
• Building a criminal defense

An effective criminal defense attorney will know how to make deals. They should always be willing to argue for you and know how to make effective counteroffers. They also act as an adviser for the defendant because they help them deal with fears and frustrations. 

Some of the other basic duties include:

• Examining witnesses 
• Helping formulate plea deals 
• Analyzing the prosecutor’s case 
• Assessing potential sentences 
• Reviewing search and seizure procedures 
• Gathering evidence 

They will also gather witnesses and question them. 

It’s important to find a criminal defense attorney who will be honest with you and real. They will explain all the possible outcomes of your trial and potential sentences or penalties you could face as a result of your charges. 

As mentioned, they may negotiate plea deals for you. If a plea deal cannot be reached or you don’t agree to the plea deal, the criminal defense attorney will represent you at your trial. 

When to Partner with a Criminal Defense Lawyer 

Hiring a lawyer is always a personal choice. If you are facing a serious misdemeanor or a felony, it’s recommended that you hire an attorney. A criminal defense attorney can help you learn about the charges and find a course of action. 

Get Ahold of a Criminal Defense Attorney Lawyer 

Now you have an answer to your question: What do criminal defense attorneys do? You don’t always have to go to trial as a defendant, but having a lawyer who can negotiate pleas for you and represent you in court if necessary is a good option. 

Find out what options may be best for you by talking with a criminal defense attorney at The Law Offices of Jeff C. Kennedy. Call 817-605-1010 to reach our firm, or fill out the contact form below.