When Should You Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

 Posted on September 15, 2023 in Criminal Law

If you or someone you know has recently found themselves in legal trouble, you might wonder what your options are. No matter what kind of criminal charges you face, you can always hire an Arlington Heights, IL criminal defense lawyer to help you weather this storm. In fact, hiring an attorney is in your best interest, even if this is your first run-in with the law.

You may worry about your reputation or how this charge will impact your work or family life. By working with a lawyer, you could decrease the impact that your charges have on your career and those you love. Cost is also another concern for people facing criminal charges; however, not hiring a lawyer could end up costing you much more in the long run. 

What is a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

Criminal defense lawyers focus on defending people charged with a crime in criminal court. They can help guide you through the legal process and may be able to reduce your charges or your punishment. A skilled criminal defense attorney could help those charged with a variety of different crimes, including:

• Murder
• Manslaughter
• Domestic Assault
• Assault
• DUI
• Sex Crimes
• Firearm Offenses
• Driving Offenses
• Robbery
• Fraud
• Theft
• White Collar Crimes 
• Arson
• Drug Offenses, including possession, trafficking, and manufacturing
• Federal Crimes

Once you have met with your lawyer to discuss your charges and the circumstances under which you were charged, they will further investigate the case to determine any possible avenues of acquitting you. This usually includes questioning law enforcement about the procedures they used. It can also involve speaking with witnesses who have information about the incident and collecting additional information about the case.

When to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Many people who have been arrested and charged with a crime mistakenly believe that if the charges are not too serious or if it is their first criminal offense, they do not need the help of an attorney. Still, others think that if they already have a criminal record, it does not matter anymore, and they will not benefit from the services of a criminal defense lawyer. Either way of thinking is flawed. No matter the number or types of crimes you have been charged with, an experienced criminal lawyer can help you.

In an ideal world, you would have a lawyer on your side the moment you are arrested. Of course, this is not very practical, but the next best option is to hire one as soon as possible after your arrest. The more serious the criminal allegations you face, the sooner you can benefit from hiring your own legal advocate. The longer you wait to find your own legal representation, the more time you waste when your lawyer could be working on your case to meet various deadlines. 

Even if you have not yet been arrested but think you might soon be, contacting a seasoned Arlington Heights, IL criminal defense attorney is in your best interest. 

Call Us Today to Speak with an Arlington Heights, IL Criminal Defense Lawyer

No matter the criminal charges you face, a Rolling Meadows, IL criminal defense attorney can help you make the best of this uncertain situation. The sooner you hire a defense lawyer, the better the outcome of your criminal case can be. Get started today by scheduling your free case consultation. Contact Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law online or by phone at 847-253-3400 today.