There are a lot of people that make the mistake of thinking that criminal defense lawyers only represent people who are guilty of committing crimes. While they do certainly provide legal representation to those who are guilty, that's not all. If you have been wrongfully accused of a crime, you will want to get in touch with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Here are some reasons why this is so important:

You'll Be Viewed As Prepared, Not Automatically Guilty

You do not want to make the assumption that by immediately hiring a criminal defense attorney that you will look as though you have actually done something wrong. Every single person that is being charged with a crime has the right to proper legal representation, whether they are hired privately or appointed by the courts. Going into court without an attorney could cost you dearly because you are not familiar with the laws and you will not know if you are being treated fairly by the prosecution.

Your Attorney Can Sway The Jury

If you are going to a jury trial, you will need to have a very good lawyer. The lawyer will not only address you on the stand, but others as well. Your lawyer will also mention things that they specifically want the jury to pay close attention to. Their job is to convince the jury with both evidence and testimony. Sometimes, the jury just needs to be swayed the way you want because you might not have enough proof or a solid enough alibi to prove you were not where the crime was committed or that there is simply no way the guilty person is you. Without your lawyer's help, the only person talking to the jury will be the prosecution.

Always make sure that you are carefully considering your options and that you are hiring the criminal defense lawyer that you believe will handle your case the best. There is a lot riding on the line, including but not limited to potential jail time, fines, court cost expenses, and a ruined reputation. Consult with a couple of attorneys and give them all of the details you can about how you are indeed innocent of the crimes you are being accused of committing. Tell your attorney everything, even if you think it might make you look bad, so he or she can work that into the defense strategy.

For more information, contact a criminal defense lawyer near you.