A defense attorney is an essential part of the modern court system, but some defendants choose to go without an attorney when facing serious issues like DUI/DWI charges or traffic violations. Although some court proceedings may not seem complex, hiring a qualified defense attorney as early as possible is the best way to receive proper representation in court. According to The Sentencing Project, there are 2 million people in the nation’s prisons and jails, a 500% increase over the last 40 years. Therefore, you want to have good representation in court! Here are three serious consequences of not hiring a defense lawyer.

1. Assistance From an Overworked Public Defender

The Constitution of the United States guarantees the right to counsel for any citizen charged with a crime, which means that individuals who don't have a lawyer will have a public defender assigned to their case. Despite the dedication many public defenders have for their jobs, they are often incredibly overworked and can't spend quality time with their clients. A defendant is not only more likely to go to jail if they receive assistance from a public defender, but are also more likely to receive a longer sentence.

2. Possibility of a Longer Sentence

Judges are given latitude for some crimes as to the punishment they hand down, which means one defendant might face three years in jail, and another might face five years in jail for the same type of crime. Without the assistance of a legal counsel, a defendant may not only face a guilty verdict but may also find themselves facing the maximum sentence. A lawyer is the best ally a defendant can have for ensuring the smallest punishment possible in the event of a conviction or a plea deal.

3. Paying More in the Long Run

Even though hiring a defense attorney will cost money, a defendant may actually pay more when they don't have a qualified attorney. Not only may the judge hand down a longer sentence, but fines associated with the arrest may also increase. Hiring a lawyer means that a defendant has someone on their side who will fight and negotiate for the defendant's freedom or, in the event of a conviction, for the lightest sentence and fine possible.

Even if a crime doesn't seem serious, the consequences of failing to secure a defense lawyer can result in a catastrophic ending for the defendant. Hiring a defense attorney ensures that a defendant will receive dedicated time and effort from their legal counsel at every point, from an arrest to court dates to appeals. If you're in need of a lawyer, give us a call at Law Offices of Jason Pollack, Esq today.