Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers | July 5, 2024 | Criminal Defense

What Is a Criminal Defense Attorney and When Do You Need One?

A criminal defense attorney is a specific type of lawyer who defends people charged with crimes. Defense attorneys can either be hired privately by a defendant or appointed through the court system. It is never too early to meet with a criminal defense lawyer if you face a criminal charge. Effective legal representation is critical when you face the long-term consequences – including possible jail time – of a criminal conviction. 

An experienced Fort Worth criminal defense attorney can help people navigate the legal process and steps involved in a criminal case. Based on their experience, criminal defense attorneys can advise you on what to expect during your case and what penalties could be involved. Most importantly, criminal defense attorneys protect a defendant’s constitutional rights and civil liberties. 

How a Fort Worth Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help You After an Arrest 

When you are arrested and charged with a crime, you face consequences that can impact your relationships, career, finances, reputation, and your freedom. A criminal defense lawyer will fight to protect your legal rights and work toward the best possible outcome in your situation. 

Some criminal defense lawyers only focus on certain types of charges, while others skillfully handle almost any type of charge you could be faced with. Your criminal defense attorney will provide valuable services: 

You do not want to go it alone when you face a criminal charge. Criminal defense lawyers can help you navigate the sometimes complicated legal process as your case moves forward. Legal advice can include information about the procedures involved in a case, what each court hearing means for your case, and what your constitutional rights are each step of the way. They will also explain possible defenses to your case and overall strategy suggestions. 

Having Your Charges Reduced or Even Dismissed

A bad mistake can sometimes lead to a permanent criminal record. Knowing this, your lawyer will work to challenge the charges against you, present a vigorous defense, and use their experience to seek reductions or dismissals of the charges against you to protect your reputation. 

Negotiating a Plea Bargain

A plea deal happens when you, your defense attorney, and the prosecutor agree for you to plead guilty or no contest to a certain charge. Many times, the new charge is lower than what was originally charged against you. In Texas, almost 98 percent of criminal cases result in plea bargains. Negotiating a plea bargain that helps you move forward with your life is the task of a skilled defense attorney. 

Trying to speak for yourself in the criminal justice system is difficult and can result in adverse consequences if you say the wrong thing. With the risk involved, it is best to trust an attorney to speak for you. Your lawyer will help you avoid saying things that can damage your case or incriminate you further. 

Taking Your Case to Trial 

If you are not satisfied with a plea bargain, you have a constitutional right to a jury trial to contest the charge you are faced with. You are innocent until proven guilty, and the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you are guilty. A criminal defense attorney will fight for you with these rights in mind. 

Contact a Fort Worth Criminal Defense Attorney Today 

Whether you face potential criminal charges in Texas or have already been charged, you will need experienced legal representation to protect your rights. A criminal defense attorney can help you every step of the way, from detainment to trial. 

For more information, please contact our criminal law firm at Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers. Give us a call at (682) 777-3336 or visit our convenient location:

We serve Tarrant County and Fort Worth, TX surrounding areas.

Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers
604 E 4th St Ste 101, Fort Worth, TX 76102