When you are arrested, you are cited for a criminal violation by law enforcement. Law enforcement turns over their reports to county attorney prosecutors who decide what to charge you with. Often, prosecutors charge you with exactly the same violation(s) that you were cited for. The judge will read the charges to you at your first court appearance, called an arraignment.

When you hire an attorney to take over your case, they file paperwork with the court notifying the other attorneys and judges that they will be representing you. Then, the attorney requests all the evidence that would be used against you during a trial from the prosecutor. This can include audio, video, text messages, photographs, witness statements, police reports, and lab reports, among other things. Your attorney will review this evidence with you to decide whether it is best to take your case to trial or negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecutor.

Misdemeanors are punishable by up to one year of imprisonment. Felonies are punishable by one year or more as a possible penalty. It is important to discuss your case with an attorney to determine the possible penalties in your case.

The answer to this depends on many factors, including whether you decide to accept a plea deal or take your case to trial. On average, cases can last from between a couple of months to a couple of years depending on the client’s goals and the complexity of the case.

The role of a criminal defense lawyer is to provide legal representation to individuals who have been accused of committing a crime. A criminal defense lawyer’s primary responsibility is to protect the rights of their clients and ensure that they receive a fair trial.

A criminal defense lawyer can help in several ways, including:

1. Providing legal advice: A defense lawyer can explain the charges against you, the potential penalties, and the strengths and weaknesses of your case.

2. Investigating the case: A defense lawyer can investigate the case against you, interview witnesses, and gather evidence to build a strong defense.

3. Negotiating with prosecutors: A defense lawyer can negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce charges or penalties or to reach a plea bargain agreement.

4. Representing you in court: A defense lawyer can represent you in court and argue your case before a judge and jury.

Whether or not you need a criminal defense lawyer depends on the specifics of your case. If you are facing serious criminal charges or the potential for significant penalties, it is highly recommended that you seek the assistance of a criminal defense lawyer. A defense lawyer can help protect your rights, build a strong defense, and work to get the best possible outcome for your case.