Can a “great” criminal defense lawyer really make a difference?
The cost of a budget attorney or self-representation in a criminal case will far exceed the cost of hiring a great defense attorney.
The Value of a Lawyer is Recognized in the United States Constitution
Every person is constitutionally entitled to the help of a great defense attorney from the initiation of a criminal investigation through the trial and even in the appeal process. If you think about it, what else are you constitutionally entitled to have? Not much. The founders of the United States recognized that the only way the criminal justice system works fairly is if every person, wealthy to less fortunate, is represented by competent counsel. Hiring a great defense attorney might be one of the most important decisions you make. It’s essential that you have someone who will honestly do whatever it takes to achieve the best possible result and who treats you compassionately and with respect.
Despite the constitutional recognition of the importance of a Michigan criminal defense lawyer, many people may feel that they can proceed with hiring a low-cost or general practice lawyer, or that a lawyer “makes them look guilty.” The criminal justice system is complex, and there are a vast array of court rules, rules of evidence, and legal precedent that can help you through the process. If you or your lawyer are not aware of all of the rules and how to take advantage of them, an error can cause your case to take a tragic turn for the worst. Police, prosecutors, judges, and other government officials do not have your best interests at heart. A good defense attorney’s sole duty is to zealously, passionately, and fearlessly represent you and secure the best potential outcome.
A Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help Protect You in Court
Walking in court with a great lawyer puts prosecutors and judges on notice that the defendant is serious about their case, they will not be taken advantage of, and that they are not going to settle for anything less than an extraordinary resolution to the case…maybe even a dismissal. Even a decent criminal defense attorney will force the prosecutor and judge to follow the rules. When an unrepresented defendant comes into court, prosecutors and judges frequently take advantage of the situation, fail to advise the defendant of rules and laws that can be helpful, and sentence the defendant to unnecessary and inappropriate fines, costs, probation conditions, and even jail or prison. Hiring a great defense lawyer sends a clear message that you are serious about your life, you will not be rail-roaded, and you will not settle for a mediocre resolution to your case.
Most people do not know all the ways the best Michigan criminal defense attorneys can help their clients. Although there are some cases where the best possible resolution may be a decreased sentence or plea bargain to a lower charge, this is generally the minimum way the lawyer can impact a case. The indisputable fact is that hiring a great defense attorney can be your first step to turning the tables in your favor.
The Benefits of Having an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney in Your Corner
For example, hiring a great defense attorney may be able to get you:
- No jail time whatsoever
- Reduced probation term
- Reduced fines and costs
- No criminal record (HYTA, 333.7411, Delayed Sentence, MCL 771.1,
- advisement, diversion, first offenders program, and many more)
- Dismissal of charges due to a constitutional violation
- Suppression of evidence
- Reversal on appeal
- An acquittal at trial
Whether a defendant is charged with a first offense or is a habitual felon, hiring a great defense attorney who is highly experienced and successful can have a huge, life-altering impact on a case.
The Costs of Not Having a Great Defense Lawyer
What about the cost of an attorney? The better question is, “what about the cost of not having an attorney?” A criminal conviction, jail or prison sentence, and onerous probation conditions can have a tragic, long-term, negative impact on a person’s life, employment, family, and more. These costs can last many years, if not a lifetime, and will undoubtedly surpass the cost of a lawyer. Hiring a great defense attorney is never within someone’s planned budget, and it is not a pleasant expense. On the other hand, the long-term costs of probation, jail, prison, extradition, deportation (in the case of a non-US citizen), or a criminal conviction will far and away exceed the cost of a great criminal defense attorney.
If you’re being investigated or facing charges, do yourself a favor and immediately contact a top-rated criminal defense attorney. If you would like to speak personally to a lawyer now, please call LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C.
Call us today at (248) 263-6800 for a free consultation or complete a Request for Assistance Form. We will contact you promptly and find a way to help you.
We will find a way to help you and, most importantly,
we are not afraid to win!
