A criminal attorney, often referred to as a criminal defense lawyer, is a lawyer who focuses on defending criminally accused persons, companies, and institutions. Many criminal lawyers work with a variety of clients in addition to criminal matters. In state, federal, and appellate courts, criminal attorneys represent defendants. Based on their expertise and thorough study in criminal law, certain states qualify criminal lawyers as "criminal law experts."

An accused defendant may seek a criminal attorney personally, or the court may assign the case to one. Many criminal attorneys work for the public defender's office and are compensated by them. Local, state, and federal courts appoint them to cases. Private businesses recruit other criminal defense lawyers, while some criminal attorneys have their own law firm that they run.

Lawyers are not always inexpensive, but they may be well worth the investment if they shield you from serious penalties such as prison time or a criminal record. Here are some of the types of cases that a criminal attorney can help you with:

Capital Crimes

Capital offenses are the most serious criminal accusation, and in many states, they are punished by death. Crimes such as murder, treason, and espionage are among them. You should contact a local criminal firm if you're accused of such crimes to meet with a criminal attorney in person and get started on your case right away. If you are facing the possibility of the death penalty as a result of your conduct, you must have a team of legal specialists on your side who will fight hard to spare your life.

Felonies

Felonies are by far the most serious form of criminal offense that aren't considered capital crimes. Drug dealing, sexual assault, robbery, and abduction are all crimes that carry a sentence of one year or more in jail. Due to the seriousness of felony accusations, it is critical to have legal counsel on your side. Criminal attorneys will fight to ensure that you are not unfairly convicted of a crime or given an unreasonable sentence. Misdemeanor offenses with a potential jail term of one year or more and criminal charges that carry a maximum prison sentence of ten years are all considered felonies.

Juvenile Cases

Crimes committed by juveniles — those under 18 — are known as juvenile crimes. If you are faced with juvenile charges, you will need the assistance of a legal team. Criminal attorneys are well-versed in the laws that apply to crimes committed by minors, making them the best candidates to handle your case. They'll clarify your rights and provide competent legal advice so you can make the best decision possible about how to proceed with your case.

Drug Offenses

Possession, distribution, production, and trafficking of drugs are all examples of drug crimes. Drug offenses are handled seriously in the criminal justice system, so if you're facing drug accusations, you'll need legal help. An attorney can outline your alternatives and argue for you to help you gain victory in your case or receive a less harsh punishment. When minors are involved in drug offenses, the consequences can have a long-term impact on your child. The substance you are charged with can also affect the severity of your sentence.

Traffic Crimes

Any criminal charges stemming from infractions of traffic regulations are referred to as traffic offenses. Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI), reckless driving, and vehicular murder are examples. If you intend to fight your traffic violation, have a legal team of criminal defense lawyers on standby who know how to defend you against these kinds of prosecutions. Your lawyer will assist you in determining the best approach for winning your case. They likely deal with plenty of cases similar to yours as, according to ValuePenguin, there are no fewer than 32 million traffic stops performed each year by officers representing a state's forces.

Misdemeanors

Misdemeanor crimes aren't as serious as capital offenses or felonies. Still, they can result in jail time, generally up to one year. Simple assault, criminal mischief, trespassing, and vandalism are some examples of misdemeanors. Legal counsel is required if you've been charged with a minor offense. In most circumstances, you'll need the assistance of an attorney to bargain with the prosecutors for a lower sentence. Your case will be tough to win without the assistance of an experienced attorney.

If you're facing criminal accusations, you'd have very little probability of succeeding without legal representation. It may make all the difference in the world to have a criminal defense lawyer on your side. Even attorneys hire other attorneys to represent them! Contact Law Offices Of Jason Pollack, Esq for more information today.