A criminal defense lawyer fulfills many important roles during the course of a criminal case. He or she is is responsible for defending a person who is charged with a crime. He or she speaks on the client’s behalf. As part of their representation, a Criminal Defense Attorney will, where necessary, investigate his client's case, interview witnesses, hire expert witnesses, collect evidence, review the prosecutors evidence and prepare a defense strategy.

A lawyer must stay in contact with his or her client to explain any developments in the case and to keep him or she informed about the case. The lawyer must ensure that conversations with the client are kept confidential. The lawyer must also ensure that he or she communicates information about the case to the client so that he or she has a better understanding of the possible consequences. You’re never alone in your case. We are aware that you may have questions about your case, and we are available to answer your questions, during regular business hours or we can schedule an after hours appointment by phone or virtually.

Criminal defense attorneys research the facts, investigate the case against their clients and try to negotiate deals with their adversaries (prosecutors). These deals may include reduced bail, reduced charges, and reduced sentences. Because of a number of factors—political and public pressure, overcrowded jails, overloaded court calendars—deal-making has grown in importance and has become an essential element in unclogging the criminal justice system.

Criminal law is a complex body of state and federal legislation. In fact, each state often sets its own definitions and punishments for state crimes. The majority of crimes are state crimes. Exceptions include causing damage to federal property or inflicting injury upon a federal employee.

The average person will not have an understanding of criminal law or the criminal justice process. Unfortunately, ignorance or failing to understand criminal law is rarely an adequate defense to avoid being found guilty.

Although an individual has the right to represent himself or herself during criminal trial proceedings, the consequences of having poor legal representation can be severe. Misdemeanors, which are lesser crimes, might only entail a fine or a brief jail sentence, but felonies, which are more serious crimes, can lead to long prison terms. This is why it is so important to have someone knowledgeable about the law argue on your behalf.