If you’re set for trial, you want to have the best – and the right person representing you in court. Lawyers and criminal defense attorneys are both skilled legal professionals – but who knows best how to defend you when faced with criminal charges?
An attorney is a person trained to act for another in business or other general legal matters. But when the legal matter is criminal defense, you need an attorney not only familiar with criminal law, but also one knowledgeable in areas of science, forensics, DNA, and other disciplines necessary to effectively challenge the prosecutor’s case against you.
Criminal defense attorneys are grouped into two categories: court-appointed attorneys paid for by the government and private lawyers paid for by the accused. Regardless, criminal defense lawyers serve the same purpose when it comes to defending those accused of criminal charges.
A criminal defense lawyer serves as their client’s guide and confidant. When hired for trial, they are responsible for investigating the law and facts, analyzing the prosecutor’s case, negotiating satisfactory deals with the prosecutor, identifying witnesses and defenses, formulating plea bargains, reviewing search and seizure procedures, questioning witnesses, and gathering evidence favorable to the defense. These agreements might result in reduced bail, severity of charges, and ultimately of possible sentences – essential to the satisfactory resolution of the client’s case. If no deal can be reached the criminal defense attorney will represent the defendant at a contested trial.
A criminal defense attorney also provides more personalized services by explaining realistic pictures of possible outcomes of the case. They also play the role of confidant, helping their clients deal with the frustrations and fears associated with the criminal justice system.
It’s a common misconception general attorneys and criminal defense lawyers are the same. They are not. Major differences exist between the two. General lawyers practice law and assist clients when acting for another in business or other general legal matters. A criminal defense attorney, on the other hand, is an expert in trial tactics and defense strategies necessary for the successful resolution of the case for the client and their family.
At Gustitis Law, we provide people accused by the criminal justice system with hope by sharing our knowledge and experience. Stephen Gustitis is a Texas Board Certified Criminal Defense Attorney with more than 27 years of experience practicing in the Bryan-College Station Area.
Have questions about hiring a criminal defense attorney or Gustitis law? Contact us 24 hours a day at 979-823-9111 or send us a message here.
