Criminal law may be intimidating. I recall the first time I visited a courtroom. The official words, complicated processes and the grave mood helped open my eyes to the level to which I was ignorant. Perhaps, you are under indictment, you are assisting a person in the process or simply attempting to make sense of how our justice system operates.
This guide simplifies the criminal law. No legal jargon. No confusing theories. Nothing fanciful; mere useful facts.
What Is Criminal Law?
Criminal law concerns the crimes against the society. A person is prosecuted when he or she violates a criminal law. This is unlike the civil law where individual parties are sued against one another.
Consider this, in case a person steals your car, it is a crime. The thief is prosecuted by the state. However, when one harms your property due to carelessness he/she may be sued in a civil court.
The government is the prosecutor in criminal cases. This is shown in the names of the cases: “State v. Smith” or “People v. Jones.”
Key Elements of Criminal Law
There are certain aspects of every crime. Prosecutors need to demonstrate every element beyond doubt. Lay one aspect off, and the case is lost.
Most crimes require two main components:
Actus Reus (Guilty Act): The person must have actually done something wrong or failed to act when required.
Mens Rea (Guilty Mind): The person must have intended to commit the crime or acted recklessly.
There are crimes that do not need intent. These include strict liability crimes. Traffic offences tend to be put under this category. Even when you did not intend to speed, you may be getting a speeding ticket.
Types of Criminal Offenses
This is because criminal offenses are classified under various categories depending on their severity. Knowing these types will enable you to know possible punishment and processes.
Felonies
The most serious crimes include felonies. They usually have one year or even more prison sentences. Common felonies include:
- Murder and manslaughter
- Rape and sexual assault
- Robbery and burglary
- Drug trafficking
- Grand theft
The effects of felony are long term. They are able to influence employment, housing, voting rights and professional licenses. The influence goes way beyond jail time.
Misdemeanors
The misdemeanors are not as severe as felonies but more severe than the infractions. Penalties usually include:
- Jail time up to one year
- Fines
- Probation
- Community service
Simple assault, petty theft and first offense DUI are common misdemeanors. Although they are not as serious as felonies, misdemeanors leave criminal records.
Infractions
Minor violations are referred to as infractions. They normally attract fines and no jail. Majority of the traffic tickets are infractions. Other jurisdictions refer to them as violations or petty offences.
The good news? The violations do not typically build criminal histories. However, minor cases that are not paid may result in greater consequences such as loss of the license.
Understanding Criminal Charges
Being brought to book on a crime initiates a complicated court procedure. All aspects such as the bails and possible punishment depend on the kind of charge.
How Charges Are Filed
Charges can start in different ways:
Citation or Ticket: In minor crimes, law enforcers do issue citations. You sign an agreement to appear in court or pay a fine.
Arrest: In more serious crimes, suspected criminals are arrested by the police. Depending on the circumstances, they can be arrested with and without a warrant.
Investigation: In other instances, it takes a long time to prosecute them. This is common with white-collar crimes.
It is the prosecutor who determines the charges to file rather than the police. It is possible that police arrest an individual on the charges of one crime, and the prosecutor will press other charges.
Common Types of Charges
Assault and Battery: Assault is threatening harm. The battery even is proving counterproductive. Certain states have merged them into a single charge.
Theft Crimes: These are starting with shoplifting up to grand theft. Stolen property is often used to define the difference between a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the value of the property.
Drug Offenses: The charges depend on the drug type and quantity, as well as personal use or sale.
DUI/DWI: The charges of driving under the influence have been getting more complicated. Some of them include license suspension, compulsory classes, and ignition interlock devices.
Domestic Violence: Special considerations were associated with these charges, such as protective orders and required arrest policies in most jurisdictions.
The Criminal Justice Process
There are certain steps that are followed by the criminal justice process. Being aware of such steps, you understand what you should expect and at which time.
Arrest and Booking
After arrest, police transport suspects to jail for booking. Booking involves:
- Taking fingerprints and photos
- Recording personal information
- Searching for warrants
- Confiscating personal property
- Conducting health screenings
Booking can take a number of hours. Even minor charges do not expect immediate release.
Initial Appearance
Defendants must appear before a judge within a reasonable time after arrest. This initial appearance addresses:
- Formal reading of charges
- Appointment of counsel for indigent defendants
- Setting bail or release conditions
- Scheduling future court dates
This is not the time when the judge decides who is guilty and who is innocent. It is concerned with making sure that the defendants have knowledge of their rights and charges.
Bail and Pretrial Release
Bail lets the defendants have a chance to be free until they have their case. The Eighth Amendment forbids excessive bail, yet the judges have wide discretion when it comes to bail.
Judges consider several factors when setting bail:
- Severity of charges
- Defendant’s criminal history
- Flight risk
- Danger to the community
- Ties to the community
Bail may be posted either in cash or a bail bondsman. The bondsmen normally pay a small percentage of the total bond of 10% as a non-refundable fee.
Certain defendants are put on their own recognizance (OR). This implies that they would be guaranteed of coming back to court without bail.
Pretrial Motions
Prior to trial, there are a number of motions filed by the attorneys. Such legal requests refer to the court requesting to do certain things.
Motion to Dismiss: Argues the charges should be dropped due to legal deficiencies.
Motion to Suppress Evidence: Requests exclusion of evidence obtained illegally.
Motion for Change of Venue: Asks to move the trial to a different location.
Motion for Discovery: Demands the prosecutor share evidence with the defense.
Effective pretrial motions can have a dramatic effect on the cases. At times they lead to the dismissal of the charges or omission of evidence that dilutes the prosecution case.
Plea Negotiations
Most criminal cases end in plea agreements, not trials. Plea bargaining benefits both sides:
For Prosecutors: Ensures convictions without the time and expense of trial. Allows focus on more serious cases.
For Defendants: Provides certainty and often reduces charges or penalties.
Common types of plea agreements include:
- Pleading to a lesser charge
- Pleading guilty in exchange for specific sentence recommendations
- Agreeing to plead guilty to some charges in exchange for dismissing others
Judges have to accept plea agreements, and they hardly deny them when they appear to be reasonable.
Trial
If no plea agreement is reached, the case goes to trial. Criminal defendants have the right to:
- Trial by jury (for offenses carrying potential jail time)
- Remain silent
- Confront witnesses against them
- Present evidence and witnesses
- Legal representation
The prosecution should demonstrate guilt beyond reasonable doubt. This is the most heavy burden of proving in our legal system.
Sentencing
After conviction, either by plea or trial, comes sentencing. Judges consider many factors:
- Severity of the crime
- Defendant’s criminal history
- Impact on victims
- Mitigating and aggravating circumstances
- Sentencing guidelines
Punishments may be imprisonment, fines, probation, community service, restitution, or a combination of those.
Your Rights in the Criminal Justice System
This is because when you know your rights you guard against unfair treatment by the state and confirm that you are not overstepped.
Constitutional Rights
The Constitution provides several protections for criminal defendants:
Fourth Amendment: Guarantees against unreasonable searches and seizures. The police usually require warrants to search your house, vehicle or body.
Fifth Amendment: Provides multiple protections:
- Right against self-incrimination
- Protection against double jeopardy
- Right to due process
Sixth Amendment: Guarantees:
- Right to speedy trial
- Right to public trial
- Right to jury trial
- Right to confront witnesses
- Right to legal counsel
Eighth Amendment: Bans excessive bail and inhuman and unusual punishment.
Miranda Rights
When police arrest you, they must read your Miranda rights if they plan to interrogate you. These rights include:
- Right to remain silent
- Warning that anything you say can be used against you
- Right to an attorney
- Right to have an attorney appointed if you can’t afford one
Most individuals believe that Miranda rights have to be read by the police as soon as someone is arrested. That’s not true. All they have to do is to offer Miranda warnings prior to custodial interrogation.
Right to Counsel
The right to have an attorney during all the crucial events of the criminal procedure is guaranteed to you. In case of inability to employ one, a court-appointed attorney or a public defender will be appointed by the court.
The level of legal representation is different. There are some great public defenders and others are overworked. If possible, consider hiring your own criminal defense attorney.
Right to Remain Silent
You have the right to refuse to answer the police questions. The right is applicable in a traffic stop, arrest and interrogations. Be polite, but assertive in this right.
A lot of them believe that they have to justify themselves or demonstrate their innocence. This often backfires. Have your attorney work with the talking.
Working With Criminal Defense Attorneys
The difference between a successful and a failed case is having the right attorney. But what do you do when you have hundreds of lawyers to pick?
What Criminal Defense Attorneys Do
Criminal defense attorneys wear many hats:
- Investigate facts surrounding charges
- Research applicable laws
- File pretrial motions
- Negotiate with prosecutors
- Represent clients at trial
- Advise on plea agreements
- Handle sentencing proceedings
The day-to-day work of criminal lawyers involves more negotiation than courtroom drama. Most cases are resolved through plea bargaining.
Choosing the Right Attorney
Several factors matter when selecting criminal defense counsel:
Experience: Find lawyers that deal with cases of a similar nature. A personal injury lawyer may not be the best lawyer to take a drug case.
Local Knowledge: Local attorneys understand the prosecutors, judges, and court procedures in your jurisdiction.
Communication Style: You require a lawyer who can clarify things to you and answer your questions.
Track Record: Ask about the lawyer’s success rate with cases like yours.
Fees: Understanding criminal defense lawyer fees helps you budget appropriately. Many attorneys offer payment plans.
Red Flags When Hiring Attorneys
Avoid lawyers who:
- Guarantee specific outcomes
- Pressure you to decide immediately
- Won’t explain their strategy
- Have recent disciplinary actions
- Seem overwhelmed with caseload
Watch for these red flags when choosing representation.
Questions to Ask Potential Attorneys
Before hiring a lawyer, ask:
- How many cases like mine have you handled?
- What’s your typical strategy for these cases?
- How do you communicate with clients?
- What are your fees and payment options?
- Who else might work on my case?
- How long do you expect my case to take?
There is nothing wrong with posing hard questions. Your future and freedom will be symbolized by this individual.
Working Effectively With Your Attorney
Good attorney-client relationships require effort from both sides:
Be Honest: Tell your attorney everything relevant to your case. Attorney-client privilege protects these conversations.
Stay Organized: Keep copies of all documents related to your case. Create a timeline of events.
Follow Advice: Your attorney has experience and training. Trust their judgment, even when their advice differs from your instincts.
Communicate Regularly: Stay in touch with your attorney. Return calls promptly and attend all scheduled meetings.
Understand Costs: Budget for legal fees and discuss payment options upfront.
Common Criminal Law Scenarios
The criminal law that is practiced in the real world is full of messy cases that do not easily fit into categories in the textbooks. These are examples of typical situations and their course of action.
DUI Cases
DUI cases have become increasingly complex. Police use multiple methods to establish impairment:
- Field sobriety tests
- Breathalyzer tests
- Blood tests
- Officer observations
Every testing procedure possesses some issues that can be contested by expert lawyers. Breathalyzers should be calibrated. Blood tests should be done on appropriate procedures. Medical conditions, weather and road conditions may influence field sobriety tests.
First-time DUI offenders often face:
- License suspension
- Fines and court costs
- Alcohol education classes
- Possible jail time
- Ignition interlock devices
The key is understanding your state’s specific DUI laws and penalties.
Drug Possession Cases
Drug possession charges vary dramatically based on:
- Type of drug
- Amount possessed
- Location of arrest
- Prior convictions
Simple possession of low values may be misdemeanors. Big quantities would trigger trafficking charges, despite lack of evidence of actual sales.
The attitude towards drug possession in many states has changed. Other ones have decriminalized marijuana. Other people pay more attention to curing addiction-related crimes instead of punishing them.
Drug courts provide an alternative approach to prosecution. The subjects get treated and overseen rather than incarcerated.
Theft and Property Crimes
Theft related crimes include shoplifting, as well as grand theft. The category usually varies according to the worth of stolen property.
Petty Theft: Typically lower priced property, less than $500-1,000 (depends on state). Frequently labeled as misdemeanors.
Grand Theft: Deals with more valuable property. Always charged as felonies.
Burglary: Going inside a building to steal or commit some other crime. That should not be confused with robbery where an individual takes property by the use of force or fear.
Robbery: Stealing the property of a person by force or fear. The violent aspect always makes it a felony.
There are identity theft, credit card fraud, and internet scams as modern theft crimes. These usually are federal charges in case they are interstate.
Assault and Battery
Many people confuse assault and battery:
Assault: Making ominous promises or trying to make or cause harm. Physical contact was not necessary.
Battery: Physical contact with a person, making them sick or injured.
In certain states these are combined into a single assault. The distinction is upheld by others.
Factors that increase assault charges:
- Use of weapons
- Severity of injuries
- Victim’s occupation (police, teachers, healthcare workers)
- Domestic relationships
Assault and battery can be justified in self-defense. The need to defend oneself needs a cautious legal approach.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence cases present unique challenges. They often involve:
- Emotional relationships between parties
- Children’s welfare concerns
- Financial dependency
- Protective orders
In most jurisdictions, police are required to arrest a person when they are called to the cases of domestic violence. This is a compulsory arrest policy that is meant to protect the victims but it has occasionally led to arrests; on flimsy evidence.
Even when victims of domestic violence do not wish to press charges, prosecutors continue the cases. They are able to subpoena the unwilling victims to testify.
In domestic violence cases, protective orders are popular. Rather, breaking these orders generates more criminal charges.
Penalties and Sentencing
Knowing the possible punishment is useful to enable the defense counsel to make wise choices concerning plea bargains and trial strategies.
Factors Affecting Sentences
Judges consider numerous factors when imposing sentences:
Offense Severity: More serious crimes receive harsher penalties.
Criminal History: Prior convictions often result in enhanced sentences.
Victim Impact: Harm to victims influences sentencing decisions.
Acceptance of Responsibility: Defendants who accept responsibility often receive lighter sentences.
Cooperation with Authorities: Providing information about other crimes can reduce sentences.
Personal Circumstances: Family responsibilities, employment, and health issues matter.
Types of Criminal Sentences
Imprisonment: Jail (local facilities for sentences under one year) or prison (state or federal facilities for longer sentences).
Probation: Supervised release allowing defendants to remain in the community while following specific conditions.
Fines: Monetary penalties that vary based on offense severity and defendant’s ability to pay.
Restitution: Payments to victims to compensate for losses.
Community Service: Required volunteer work benefiting the community.
Electronic Monitoring: House arrest using ankle bracelets or other monitoring devices.
Treatment Programs: Court-ordered counseling, drug treatment, or anger management classes.
Sentencing Guidelines
Sentencing guidelines are employed by many jurisdictions to enhance uniformity. These rules propose sentencing stipulations on the basis of severity of offense and criminal record.
Rules are not obligatory at the majority of locations. Judges have the option of leaving recommendations of sentences as long as they give the reasons.
The federal sentences are very serious compared to those of the state. Federal courts too have restricted parole choices.
Alternative Sentencing Options
Traditional imprisonment isn’t the only option. Alternative sentences include:
Drug Courts: Treatment-focused programs for addiction-related crimes.
Mental Health Courts: Specialized programs for defendants with mental illness.
Veterans Courts: Programs addressing issues specific to military veterans.
Community Courts: Neighborhood-based problem-solving approaches.
Restorative Justice: Programs bringing together victims, offenders, and community members to address harm caused by crimes.
These alternatives focus on addressing underlying problems rather than just punishment.
Special Considerations
Certain situations in criminal law require special attention and understanding.
Juvenile Criminal Law
The juvenile justice system operates differently from adult criminal courts. Key differences include:
- Focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment
- Sealed records in many cases
- Different terminology (petition instead of complaint, adjudication instead of conviction)
- Family involvement in proceedings
- Alternative dispositions like counseling or community service
Severe offenses may lead to the trial of juveniles as adults. Such a decision is based on such factors as age, the severity of the offense, and a history.
Federal vs. State Crimes
Most criminal cases are prosecuted in state courts. Federal prosecution occurs when crimes:
- Cross state lines
- Involve federal property or employees
- Violate specific federal laws (drug trafficking, mail fraud, etc.)
- Occur on federal property
The federal sentences tend to be more severe than the state sentences. Federal courts restrict the availability of parole and the resultant effect is that defendants serve the major portion of their sentence.
White-Collar Crimes
White-collar crimes involve deception for financial gain rather than violence. Common examples include:
- Fraud
- Embezzlement
- Money laundering
- Tax evasion
- Securities violations
These cases are usually accompanied with complicated financial documents and need lawyers who have the specialized knowledge.
White-collar crimes might be harshly punishable with sentences of long imprisonment and heavy fines. Criminal charges usually go hand in hand with civil liability to defendants.
Sex Crimes
Sex crime prosecutions present unique challenges:
- Emotional nature of charges
- Complex evidence issues
- Registration requirements upon conviction
- Long-term collateral consequences
Convictions of sex crime frequently involve sex offender registration. This impacts on the places where the defendants are able to reside, to work, and to travel.
Such cases need lawyers who are knowledgeable in the matters of dealing with delicate pieces of evidence and emotional testimony.
Appeals and Post-Conviction Relief
After conviction, defendants have options for challenging their cases:
Direct Appeals: Challenge legal errors that occurred during trial. Must be filed within specific time limits.
Habeas Corpus Petitions: Challenge convictions based on constitutional violations. Often used when new evidence emerges or ineffective counsel is claimed.
Sentence Modifications: Request changes to sentences based on changed circumstances or legal developments.
Pardons and Commutations: Executive clemency that forgives crimes or reduces sentences.
Understanding expungement vs. pardon options can help clear criminal records.
Record Sealing and Expungement
Criminal convictions have life-long records that influence employment, housing, and other opportunities. In some states, under some conditions, record sealing or expungement is possible:
Expungement: Destroys or seals criminal records as if the case never happened.
Record Sealing: Limits access to criminal records but doesn’t destroy them.
Certificate of Rehabilitation: Doesn’t erase records but demonstrates rehabilitation efforts.
Depending on the state and offence, the eligibility to these programs differs. Others do not include the major violent offenses or habitual criminals.
Protecting Your Rights and Future
The accusations of a crime can destroy your life even when you end up being innocent. Prevention is the best cure to safeguard your rights and reduce losses.
During Police Encounters
Police encounters can escalate quickly. Protect yourself by:
- Remaining calm and polite
- Keeping hands visible
- Following lawful orders
- Exercising your right to remain silent
- Asking if you’re free to leave
- Requesting an attorney if arrested
Never allow police to search without warrants. Kindly declare, I do not approve any searches.
Note interactions where allowed by law in your state. A good number of phones have applications that automatically save videos on the cloud.
Protecting Your Reputation
Criminal charges become public records. Protect your reputation by:
- Avoiding social media posts about your case
- Telling family and friends not to discuss the case publicly
- Consulting with PR professionals if media attention is likely
- Considering professional counseling to cope with stress
Your first step into criminal law should focus on protecting both your legal rights and your reputation.
Financial Planning
Criminal cases are expensive. Beyond attorney fees, consider:
- Lost wages from court appearances
- Potential job loss
- Fines and restitution
- Increased insurance costs
- Professional license issues
Immediate financial planning. Other attorneys provide payment plans. There could be legal aid organizations that assist those who are eligible.
Family Considerations
Whole families are impacted by criminal charges. Children may experience embarrassment in school. Employers may have moral clauses to end up leaving their spouses jobless.
Think of family counseling as a way of coping. Be candid with children in matters within their age limits. Do not allow them to hear of charges in the news or in acquaintances.
Moving Forward After Criminal Cases
Criminal cases have long term consequences regardless of whether the charges are dropped or you are found guilty. It begins with future planning.
Employment Considerations
Criminal records influence employment opportunities. Be ready to be honest about convictions in the job applications and interviews.
Some strategies for employment after criminal convictions:
- Focus on employers known to hire people with criminal records
- Develop job skills while your case is pending
- Get letters of recommendation from community members
- Consider entrepreneurship if traditional employment is limited
- Look into professional licensing restrictions early
Housing Issues
Housing can be hard to come by when one has criminal records. The background checks done by landlords tend to disqualify criminals.
Consider:
- Looking for private landlords rather than large management companies
- Having references ready from previous landlords, employers, or community members
- Offering larger security deposits
- Finding co-signers if necessary
Education and Licensing
Certain education programs and licenses deny criminals access to professions. Study out these limitations in advance.
Many programs consider factors like:
- Time since conviction
- Nature of the offense
- Evidence of rehabilitation
- Current character references
Community Reintegration
Successful reintegration into the community often requires:
- Stable housing and employment
- Supportive relationships
- Mental health and substance abuse treatment if needed
- Volunteer work or community involvement
- Compliance with all court orders
Long-term Planning
Think beyond immediate consequences. Criminal convictions can affect:
- Immigration status
- Child custody
- Professional licenses
- Voting rights
- Gun ownership rights
- Travel restrictions
You have to anticipate these long-term effects early on in your case. In certain cases, the plea bargains can be formed in a manner to avoid certain consequences that are of the greatest concern to you.
Common Myths About Criminal Law
Criminal law has numerous misconceptions that are formed by popular culture. The knowledge of reality assists you to make better decisions.
Myth: Police Must Read Miranda Rights Upon Arrest
Miranda is only required to be given warnings by the police prior to custodial interrogation. They are allowed to arrest you, search you and even to ask simple questions about you during booking without using Miranda warnings.
Myth: You Get One Phone Call
One phone call is not a constitutional right. As jail policies sometimes differ, most of them provide access to phones within a reasonable time after booking.
Myth: If Police Don’t Have a Warrant, the Search Is Illegal
A large number of searches do not need warrants. Cases of police search are with consent, during arrests, officer safety, emergency, and other cases.
Myth: Minor Traffic Violations Aren’t Criminal
Traffic offences are criminal offenses, although minor. Most of the states criminalize DUI, reckless driving and driving without a license.
Myth: First-Time Offenders Always Get Probation
Although on the one hand, first-time offenders are often given lighter sentences, there is no certainty of probation. Sentencing is based on the severity of the offense, circumstances among numerous other considerations.
Myth: Expensive Lawyers Are Always Better
Quality is not necessarily the price. There are other public defenders who are great lawyers. There are high-priced attorneys who do not have experience in criminal law.
Research attorney qualifications, not just fees. Learn how to pick a criminal defense lawyer based on relevant criteria.
Myth: Plea Bargains Are Admissions of Guilt
There are also practical reasons as to why people accept plea agreements and not that they are guilty. The system promotes plea bargaining by reducing charges and recommending sentences.
Myth: Criminal Cases Move Quickly
Television programs condense months of court action into an hour of television programming. The real-world criminal cases may take months or years to be resolved. Complex cases take longer.
Myth: If Evidence Is Excluded, Charges Are Dismissed
The repressed evidence does not necessarily terminate cases. Prosecutors may possess alternative evidence or just do without the excluded evidence.
Building Your Legal Knowledge
Understanding criminal law is an ongoing process. Here are resources for continuing education:
Legal Research Skills
Learning basic legal research helps you understand your case better:
- Court websites often provide case information
- Legal databases contain statutes and case law
- Legal research guides help navigate complex systems
- Law librarians can provide research assistance
Understanding Court Procedures
Each court has local rules and procedures. Familiarize yourself with:
- Filing deadlines
- Required document formats
- Hearing procedures
- Electronic filing systems
Staying Current on Legal Changes
Criminal law changes frequently. Stay informed through:
- Legal news websites
- Bar association publications
- Attorney newsletters
- Court rule updates
Educational Resources
Consider taking classes or workshops on:
- Your rights during police encounters
- Basic legal concepts
- Court procedures
- Understanding complex legal concepts simplified
Conclusion: Taking Control of Your Legal Situation
Criminal law has an impact on each and every person either directly or indirectly. Being aware of your rights and the legal process and resources available will help get informed choices.
The key points to remember:
- Exercise your constitutional rights, especially the right to remain silent and right to counsel
- Choose legal representation carefully based on experience and local knowledge
- Understand that most cases resolve through plea bargaining, not trials
- Consider long-term consequences beyond immediate penalties
- Plan financially for the costs associated with criminal cases
- Protect your reputation and family throughout the process
- Focus on successful reintegration regardless of case outcomes
Criminal charges cause anxiety and tension. However, knowledge will eliminate fear and make your way through the system better.
Regardless of whether you are under arrest, whether you are representing a person under arrest, or you are merely seeking to gain greater insight into our justice system, it is important to remember that each case is different. Wise advice is inadmissible instead of custom-made law services of an expert law firm that knows the local courts and jurisdiction. Like my guide, follow me LinkedIn for more updates.
The criminal justice system is not perfect but an explanation of its operation provides you with the highest possibility of attaining positive results. Realize your situation and take control by educating yourself about your rights, select good representation and make well-informed decisions in the process.
It is all about what you do now in order to determine your future. Be judicious and keep in mind that serious criminal charges do not necessarily have to serve to shape the remainder of your life. It is also true that with the right legal assistance and planning, you will be able to go forward despite the outcome in your case.
Need help finding the best criminal lawyer near you? Start your search today. The sooner you get experienced legal help, the better your chances of achieving the best possible outcome in your case.
