Criminal Justice Lawyer
Posted on April 10th, 2019 by Oddo & Babat, P.C.
Criminal Defense Attorney
Pros and Cons of Representing Yourself in Criminal Court
Finding yourself entangled in legal proceedings is one of the most unpleasant things you can experience, especially if the charges are criminal. The criminal justice system allows you to have access to legal professionals who can advise you on your rights and who can guide you through every step of the process. You don’t have to hire an attorney, however. If you prefer, you can represent yourself in your case. Some people choose this method. When you understand the benefits and drawbacks of this decision, you can feel good about which way to go.
Why Represent Yourself: Save Money
In a criminal case, you probably worry most about salvaging your reputation and staying out of jail or prison. It’s not a secret, though, that hiring and working with a lawyer costs money—sometimes a lot of it. You could pay hundreds or even thousands of dollars every hour to enlist the services of an experienced, accomplished criminal defense attorney. When you forgo a lawyer and act as your own counsel, you don’t have to spend a dime on legal professionals.
Why Represent Yourself: More Freedom to Say What You Want
A lawyer understands much more about the law and about your case than you possibly could. This may entice may attorneys to proceed with caution and refrain from saying certain things in court. When you represent yourself, you won’t worry about holding anything back. You can speak your mind much more freely and explain details about your case that a professional would likely keep away from the proceedings.
Why Hire a Lawyer: Experience and Expertise
No matter how much you research and how hard you try, there’s no way you can duplicate a trained attorney and his or her understanding of the law and knowledge of how to effectively proceed with your case. Attorneys have represented people like you in similar cases. They know what’s admissible in court and what to file and when to file it. Lawyers won’t be taken advantage of by prosecutors as you would be.
Why Hire a Lawyer: Can Work on Plea Deals
When the judge or jury hands down a decision from your case, your lawyer may work with the prospector to negotiate a plea bargain and reduce your sentence. This can spare you from serving as long of a jail sentence or serving at all. As your own counsel, you don’t have this option.
It’s easy to see how choosing a criminal defense attorney Fairfax, VA and working with this professional on your case is a good move. You’ll feel at ease with an experienced professional in your corner.
I consulted with David the first time a couple of years ago on a serious matter that affected a very close member of my family. Not expecting a good experience from this serious situation coupled with an attorney consultation, the entire thing surprised me as it was pleasant, professional, and completely successful. We found him clear, direct, generous and extremely knowledgeable throughout the process. I give my very strongest recommendation
