Anyone can commit a crime, whether they do so knowingly or unknowingly. Whether or not an offense was intentional, it is always a good idea to have help from criminal lawyers in Vermont. With help from someone who knows the law, a client can level the field and achieve a just outcome.
Plea Bargains and Negotiations
When possible, a defense lawyer will work with the client and the prosecutor to negotiate a plea deal, particularly in cases involving death penalty or a lengthy prison sentence. These arrangements are intended to reduce the burden on the court in return for a lighter sentence or reduced charges. A prosecutor may be unwilling to negotiate with someone who represents themselves, but having a lawyer can increase the chances of a favorable deal.
Sentencing
In the event of a guilty verdict, a criminal defense lawyer may be able to get a client’s sentence reduced. For instance, instead of going to prison for murder, a criminal attorney may be able to get the charges reduced to manslaughter. With a thorough investigation of the case and its circumstances, an attorney can discover broken rules and misapplied laws that give the client leverage they didn’t know they had.
Technicalities
It happens quite often on TV: A criminal case is dismissed due to a loophole or technicality on the prosecutor’s or arresting officer’s part. American citizens are guaranteed certain freedoms and rights, but unless one has legal knowledge, it’s difficult to know when those rights are being violated. While a victim may be unsettled to hear that a defendant’s charges have been dropped because of a technicality, these laws are in place to protect everyone’s rights.
Statements from Witnesses
Experience allows a criminal lawyer to effectively assemble witnesses’ statements. When a defendant self-represents, victims’ and witnesses’ statements can be unobtainable due to fear and other reasons. Criminal lawyers in Vermont have a variety of resources they can use, including industry witnesses and private investigators, to ensure quality testimony.
The Verdict
There’s a difference between practicing and learning the law, and real-world experience can play a significant role in a trial’s final outcome. Although an innocent person may believe they can successfully represent themselves in a criminal case, the risk is high and it is almost always a bad idea. For legal representation, contact Jason J. Sawyer Attorney & Counselor at Law today.
