What is the role that a criminal lawyer plays for the defendant?
For a victim who is seeking a prosecution, the task is fundamentally different, seeing actions play out that aggressively pursues a conviction and a sentence commensurate with the alleged crime.
For the defense counsel, much of the process is a case of reacting to the events and attempting to get out in front of the evidence.
A good criminal law firm does preside under an environment that presumes innocence and where guilt must be proved beyond a reasonable doubt, but that is merely a starting point.
Here we will look at the role they play for citizens that are facing serious charges, outlining how they can help and influence a case for their benefit.
Being Trained and Educated on Updated Laws and Principles
To even reach the entry level and become a criminal lawyer is an achievement unto itself. From obtaining a Law degree and doctorate in the field to passing the state bar exam, a professional must showcase a competence and expertise to reach this standard. Yet the training and education do not stop once a license to practice law is handed down. To play the role and be of benefit to the community, each solicitor has to be updated on criminal proceedings and amendments that are issued.
Giving The Client All Potential Legal Avenues
A defendant will never have one legal avenue, even if it feels like it does for some individuals who are boxed into a difficult sentence. From submitting a plea of guilty or not guilty to a plea of no contest or, in some rare and exceptional circumstances, of filing for a plea of insanity, there are various avenues that can be taken. Should an individual who is implicated in a crime work with law enforcement to strike for additional convictions, they can see charges dropped or a sentence reduced. The role of the solicitor is to provide all potential avenues and communicate effectively what the
Negotiating With Other Parties
According to O’Sullivan Legal, when deals can be struck or there is a way to reduce charges or work with law enforcement, that is when the art of negotiation takes place. This is not only a quality and skill that defines their expertise but it is a core role that they provide their client. Having the capacity to make concessions and leverage assets against opposing counsel to influence the final outcome is why any citizen would want to have them on their side in the first place.
Paperwork and Documentation
So much of the progress that is made within a case will take place when the counsel for the defendant is able to prepare and draft legal documentation. From appeals and briefs to administrative subpoenas and amendments, consent forms, an affidavit or any corrections or statements that are handed down, this is one of their fundamental roles. It might not be eye-catching or seen as overly important, but these logistical matters are vital to ensure that a client is receiving the best possible representation with an advocate who is working in accordance within justice system guidelines.
Conducting Research Activities
Conducting research and gathering evidence is core to any solicitor, particular those operators based within the confines of criminal law. From gathering police reports and DNA tests to eyewitness testimony and documentation, these become the tools that underpin the narrative put before a courtroom.
Operating Morally and Ethically
How can anyone hire a representative within the justice system who does not operate justly themselves? This is arguably the greatest role of a criminal lawyer – to operate morally and ethically, not only within the codes of practice that are outlined in black and white but in accordance with the oath they took to earn the position. These practitioners are held to a higher standard and they must adhere to those principles at every turn.
