A Comprehensive Guide to Prepare Yourself for Criminal Proceedings
If you’re charged with criminal offences, that means you must appear in court. This is a daunting experience even for people who have been to court several times. Therefore, you must prepare adequately for your first appearance.
First things first: hire a criminal defence lawyer
If you’re facing serious charges, your resources and freedom are at stake. You need an experienced Orlando criminal defence attorney to help you understand what you are up against. Be sure to hire a lawyer who has many years of experience, has an outstanding track record, and is available to fight for your rights.
The lawyer can also help you understand the details of the charges you are facing, the possible penalties your charges can attract, your rights, whether or not the case should be handled by a superior court, and what you will be up against if you plead not guilty or guilty. Don't use plagiarised sources.Get your custom essay just from $11/page
Read and understand your documentation
If you’re facing criminal charges, you will get a copy of the prosecution notice and a written statement outlining the facts of your case before your first appearance in court. These documents offer a detailed explanation of the offences you are charged with and other facts that the prosecution allege happened. Therefore, it’s essential to read and understand these documents to ensure that you make informed choices. If you don’t understand the industry jargon used, seek the help of a good lawyer.
Plead guilty or not guilty?
Generally, the choice to plead not guilty or guilty of the charges you are facing up to you. And before choosing what you plead, it’s crucial to analyze the facts and strength of the prosecutor’s case. Also, analyze the probability that the prosecutor will successfully prove that you’re guilty of the crimes. Your defence lawyer can help figure out these issues. So, by the time you plead guilty or not guilty, you already be sure of what you are doing.
Once you choose to plead not guilty, you and your lawyer should build an excellent defence to prove that you’re innocent of the charges you are facing. Alternatively, you can plead guilty. If you choose this path, make the plea the earliest chance you get. There is a good chance you will get a reduction in sentence. But this doesn’t mean you don’t need a lawyer. He or she can help you get a better outcome in sentencing.
Attend court proceedings as expected
Your court summons must state the date and time you are supposed to attend court. It’s crucial that you attend your first and subsequent court appearances. Failure to do so will lead to the judge or jury issuing an arrest warrant. On the day of the hearing, make sure that you dress appropriately, arrive on time, make the necessary children care if appropriate, and wait until your case is called.
Being charged with nearly any criminal offence is a challenging situation. But with enough preparation and with the right lawyer on your side, you can ensure that your rights aren’t violated, and you get the best possible outcome.