Every day people across Victoria are
charged with criminal offences they may or may not have committed and are ordered
to appear before court. Charges can vary from petty theft, traffic offences to assault.
Regardless of the scale of the crime and your innocence, it’s always best to
hire a lawyer. Being accused of
breaking the law is a serious matter which can lead to life-altering
consequences if you are convicted. Here’s 5 reasons why you should seek
professional legal representation:
1)
Understanding the Charges
Criminal charges are more complex than
you think. If you’re facing criminal charges, you need to understand the
severity of the situation, exactly how it will affect you and how to contest the
charges. Criminal lawyers have extensive knowledge and can explain in full
detail what charges the police or prosecution alleges you have done.
2)
Professional Advice
You will need to answer for the
criminal charges you are being accused of, therefore you will need sound advice
on what to do. It is best to be prepared with a top lawyer so that you do not
worsen your chances of being convicted by saying or doing anything that could
affect your case. Receiving professional and experienced advice will help you
achieve the best possible outcome. Ultimately you have a choice on whether to
plead guilty or not guilty for the charges. A criminal lawyer is obliged to
respect your decision but can also advise you on your options and detail the best
case scenario you face for each plea.
3)
Support for Police
Interviews
It can be nerve wrecking being accused
of a crime. Having a lawyer present not only offers support but comfort during
critical times during your case. It’s sensible to have a lawyer present as you
are requested to participate in a police interview, especially if you’re unsure
of what to say and how to interact with police. Lawyers will be able to explain
your rights during the situation. Often, the initial police interview is
crucial to your case.
4)
Accessing & Presenting
Evidence Correctly
When you face criminal charges, the
police or prosecution will gather evidence against you. A criminal lawyer can
access this information which might include witness statements or photographs
and analyse it for you to help defend your case. Obtaining and communicating
evidence can also be extremely complicated in a criminal trial. A criminal lawyer
knows the rules of evidence which come into play in the court room. These rules
determine what evidence must or must not be considered in reaching a
verdict.
5)
Strategising &
Preparing Your Case
Whether you decide to fight the case
and plead not-guilty or accept the charges, you will still be required to
appear in court. However, there are some circumstances where a criminal lawyer can
appear in court without you. Having a lawyer saves you a lot of time and stress
by preparing your case for you.They can not only speak on your behalf but they
can strategically put together all the material necessary to support your case
such as finding key witnesses, preparing you for the stand and obtaining
character witnesses for you.
