If you are facing criminal charges, you need a robust defense strategy. Every criminal charge is as unique as the alleged crime involved. Your best criminal defense strategy is unlikely to look exactly like anyone else’s. However, several elemental components are essential for every defense, and your experienced criminal defense lawyer will deftly apply these to your case.
The Best Foundation for Your Defense Is the Truth
For your defense lawyer to provide you with reliable legal guidance, you will need to be honest and open about whatever led to the charges you are facing in the first place. Your experienced lawyer is well versed at using the truth of the matter at hand to construct a tight defense that is both compelling and instructive for the judge or jury trying the case.
Preparation Is Key
If you are facing criminal charges, the last thing you want to do is go before the judge before you have done the necessary preparation with your attorney. The consequences of a conviction are far too steep to wing it, and the fact is that going before the court can make anyone nervous – and more prone to saying things that do not help your cause. Further, it is vital to present yourself in your best light so that the judge’s initial impression is not negative. You should carefully go over the following important points with your criminal defense lawyer before facing the court:
The Details of Your Charge – You should be clear on every point involved in the charge you are facing. Speaking confidently on the matter, with your defense strategies seamlessly intertwined, bolsters your statements while providing faltering responses that can harm your credibility.
Your Appearance – Your appearance should reflect your respect for the court.
Your Attitude – When you address the court with confidence in the truth of your responses and overall respect for the legal process, it sends the right message.
Let your criminal defense lawyer’s constructive criticism be your guide.
Understand the Charges You Face
The first order of business is understanding the charges you face. The stress inherent to facing criminal charges can make this primary first step deceptively tricky. Your dedicated criminal defense lawyer will explain your charges' exact nature, your defense strategy (and how it applies), the likely outcome of your case, and the potential consequences for your future. Once you have all of this information at your disposal, it can make moving forward with a purpose more manageable.