If you’ve been charged with a crime that could potentially result in jail time, you need to hire a criminal defense attorney. But which is the right time? How do you know if it’s too late to call an attorney? What should you do if a specific deadline has passed without your lawyer contacting you? These are some of the many questions you might be asking yourself when facing a criminal charge. Despite the confusion, it’s never too late to call an attorney. They will always give you the best information and guide how best to act. If you find yourself in any of the following instances, you need to contact your attorney ASAP.
Get an Attorney for Assault and Battery Charges
Most states have passed laws that require any arrested person in a crime involving assault and battery to be represented by an attorney. The reason for this is that if the prosecution can prove that you knowingly or intentionally injured another person, you could face considerable jail time. These charges are serious, and your liberty depends on whether you have legal representation. In these cases, you should never go with a court-appointed lawyer as they are not always equipped to handle such cases.
Drug Charges
Like assault and battery offenses, many states require that anyone arrested for crimes involving drugs be represented by a lawyer. It is because drug charges come with harsh punishments if convicted. Some of these penalties include fines and lengthy prison sentences. Anything that could result in jail time is worth your lawyer’s expertise.
You’ve Waited Too Long to Get An Attorney
If you’re on trial for a crime and you didn’t hire an attorney, there may be a chance your case can still be overturned. If the lawyer’s failure to defend you violated your right to effective counsel, the court could rule that your case must be retried. Provided the outcome of the trial was not already decided before your lawyer failed to represent you.
According to the constitution, defendants have an absolute right to effective counsel. Lawyers can’t just forfeit their representation once they’ve been appointed. If your lawyer is drunk, intoxicated, sleeping in court, or simply not giving you any direction during the trial, you can request a new attorney. You ask for a retrial if your attorney is doing nothing but hoping for a plea bargain or acquittal without putting on any defense whatsoever.
Fraud Case or Financial Charges
If you face fraudulent charges or any crime revolving around financial loss, you will need a qualified legal team. The attorney should have experience fighting these charges. Sometimes innocent mistakes in handling finances can be twisted into something serious. You need to hire an attorney who has the knowledge and the skill to defend you. Law Firm Ocala has some of the best attorneys fighting financial or other criminal charges.
Alcohol and Alcohol-Related Crimes
Alcohol-related crimes are handled differently than other crimes. If you are arrested and charged with driving under the influence, you need to hire an attorney that understands DUI cases. If you are convicted, the consequences could be more severe than if you were charged with another crime. In some cases, punishments for alcohol-related charges can include lengthy prison sentences or hefty fines.
Theft Charges
If you were charged with theft or shoplifting, you must contact a defense attorney right away. These types of charges are not just misdemeanors or petty offenses. These are felonies, and they can result in significant jail time. In recent years, many states have passed “Theft-Threshold” laws that make theft of even small amounts of money a felony, but those caught can be forced to pay restitution in addition to jail time.
If You Face a Homicide Charge
When you are in a position where you have been accused of homicide, it is only natural to feel overwhelmed. However, don’t give up and hope for the worst. Homicide is not a minor charge, and if you are convicted, it could result in life in prison or the death penalty. If there is any chance that your homicide case can be overturned or lessened, you must contact a criminal defense attorney immediately.
It is never too early to hire a criminal defense attorney. There are instances where you may not have to hire an attorney until trial, but if you are arrested or even questioned by the police, you need one right away. The earlier you call a criminal defense attorney, the better off you’ll be. A criminal defense attorney can help you prevent jail time or minimize charges. If you are in a tight situation, call Law Firm Ocala and get some of the most reputable defense attorneys to fight for you. Do not attempt to fight a criminal case on your own; the rend results could be devastating. Call Law Firm Ocala today for more information.