As you weigh the pros and cons of navigating a criminal case on your own or with the help of a legal advocate, you may wonder what does a criminal defense attorney do in Phoenix, Arizona. The criminal defense lawyers at the Hallam Law Group believe that the support of a criminal defense lawyer is truly essential, and the support and care they can offer are unparalleled.

What a Criminal Defense Attorney Does

The role of a criminal defense attorney is crucial for their clients as they work to defend individuals or organizations who are charged with criminal offenses. They work to not only protect their client’s rights and ensure they receive a fair trial but also serve as representation throughout the criminal justice process.

Regardless of any guilt, a criminal defense lawyer is available to support their clients by advocating for their rights and addressing any concerns that may emerge throughout the process. Below is a detailed look into what a criminal defense attorney does for their clients:

• Consultation and advice. When a client first contacts a criminal defense lawyer, the attorney will spend time reviewing the details of the case, the charges, and any evidence the client may have. They can assess the strengths and weaknesses of the case to help provide a detailed analysis of how to approach the case.
  An attorney can also detail what legal rights a client has, including the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and the potential penalties they may face if they are convicted of the crime.
• Investigation and case preparation. The defense attorney can initiate a detailed investigation to gather the relevant evidence involved in a case. This includes police reports, witness statements, forensic evidence, and video footage. They will begin preparing the case for trial by reviewing the prosecution’s evidence and strategy to look for weaknesses and flaws.
• Defense strategy development. Taking evidence into account and their case preparation, a lawyer can develop a strategy for the case. This strategy will differ based on the details of an individual case, which may prove that the defendant is innocent, challenge the legality of evidence, or claim self-defense.
  Defense attorneys can also prepare with their clients the potential for negotiations for a plea deal, which in some cases may be a more favorable option than proceeding to trial.
• Court representation. A major role of a defense lawyer is representing their clients in court in all pre-trial hearings and during trial. During the trial, the defense attorney will present a compelling case on their client’s behalf and advocate for their fair and just treatment. Throughout the trial, a defense attorney can work to raise doubts about the case against you and aim to prevent a conviction.
• Negotiating plea deals. If the evidence against the defendant is strong, or if the trial may result in a harsh sentence, a defense lawyer may negotiate a plea deal. involving pleading guilty to a lesser charge or receiving a more lenient sentence in exchange for avoiding a trial. Defense attorneys can provide their clients with insightful advice on whether the plea deal being offered is fair or in their ideal interests.
• Post-trial support. If the defendant is convicted of a crime, a defense attorney can argue for a lighter sentence if they can present mitigating factors, like a lack of prior criminal history or remorse. If the attorney believes there were errors during the trial, they may file for an appeal and seek a new trial or a reduced sentence.
• Protection of constitutional rights. Throughout the process, a criminal defense attorney ensures that the defendant’s constitutional rights are not violated through the entire criminal justice process.

The level of support that a criminal defense lawyer should not be overlooked or undervalued by an individual who is facing criminal charges. The level of quality work they can offer their clients is often essential to setting up a compelling defense that can make a difference.

FAQs About Criminal Defense Law in Phoenix,AZ

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Cost in Arizona?

In Arizona, how much a criminal defense attorney costs can vary greatly depending on the unique factors of each individual case. Factors that can influence the cost of working with an attorney are their level of experience and reputation, the amount of time needed for the case, the complexity of the case, and jurisdictional concerns.

What Does the Defense Attorney Focus On?

A defense attorney focuses on representing their client well by either challenging the prosecution case, reducing the severity of the charges, or negotiating a favorable outcome. Their main goal is to ensure that their client receives a fair trial and that they are backed by a solid defense strategy to secure a positive result.

Do You Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Arizona?

If you need a criminal defense lawyer in Arizona, it will hinge on the specific details of your individual case. If you have a highly complex case that requires a lot of time and skill to navigate, working with a criminal defense lawyer may be in your ideal interest as they can fight for a fair result.

What Is the Opposite of a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

The opposite of a criminal defense lawyer would be a prosecutor or district attorney. A prosecutor represents the government in criminal cases and works to prove that the defendant committed the crime. The goal of a prosecutor is to secure a conviction and see that justice is served according to the law.

Speak With a Trusted Criminal Defense Lawyer in Phoenix, Arizona Today

As you look to partner with a criminal defense lawyer who can adequately support you in your case, contact the Hallam Law Group. By setting up an initial consultation, you agree to meet with legal professionals who are not only experienced at representing clients facing challenging crime accusations but who are also ready to hear your story and create a defense strategy that makes sense and will defend you and push you towards a favorable outcome.