Being arrested or questioned by authorities can be an overwhelming experience. Having a criminal defense attorney on your side to advise you and represent you in court is a must. From building a solid defense strategy to providing emotional support, these attorneys can assist in navigating the justice system and ensuring your rights are respected. Keep reading to learn more about the types of cases a criminal defense attorney handles and how they can help you at this difficult time in your life.
Types of Cases a Criminal Defense Attorney Handles
If you have been charged with a criminal offense, it is essential to obtain legal counsel as soon as possible. A criminal defense attorney can provide invaluable guidance and support throughout the case. The following are some of the most common types of cases that Mitchell Cozad handles as a criminal defense attorney:
DUI/DWI Cases
Driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while impaired (DWI) are serious offenses that can carry hefty penalties upon conviction. DUI/DWI cases often carry mandatory jail sentences and license suspensions, so it’s important to hire an attorney who has experience with these types of cases.
Drug Crimes
Criminal charges related to drug use or possession can range from minor misdemeanor offenses such as simple possession all the way up to felony offenses like drug trafficking or manufacturing. Mitchell Cozad evaluates each element for each charge and develops an effective plan of action based on experience handling similar cases in court.
Violent Crimes
Violent crimes include assault, battery, domestic violence, homicide, rape, robbery, and more, and typically come with serious consequences if convicted including prison time and significant fines.
This list is not exhaustive; no matter what type of charges you are facing, it is important that you consult with a qualified criminal defense attorney who has experience handling similar cases in court. Mitchell Cozad understands the significance of providing clients with guidance every step of the way.
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help You
Being accused of a crime can be an overwhelming experience. It can leave you feeling scared, frustrated, and uncertain about your future. That’s why it’s important to understand how a criminal defense attorney can help you if you are facing legal charges.
Protect Your Rights
An experienced criminal defense attorney will make sure that all your constitutional rights are respected by law enforcement officers and prosecutors, including the right to remain silent, the right to have an attorney present during questioning, and the right against unreasonable search and seizure. They may also be able to get evidence suppressed or the case dismissed if evidence was improperly obtained.
Gather Evidence
A criminal defense attorney will work hard to build a strong defense on your behalf by gathering evidence that supports your side of the story. This includes collecting witness testimony and looking into any police misconduct or procedural errors that may have occurred.
Negotiate Plea Deals
In many cases, going through a trial isn’t necessary or advisable. Working together with the client, a skilled criminal defense attorney can often negotiate plea deals with prosecutors that reduce or eliminate certain charges or result in lighter sentences than would otherwise be possible after a trial.
Represent You in Court
If your case goes to trial, having an experienced attorney on your side is crucial. A good criminal defense attorney will be able to present your case and explain complex legal concepts in ways that make sense to both you and the jury.
Selecting an experienced Criminal Defense Attorney is essential when dealing with any kind of criminal charges. It can mean the difference between keeping your record clear, staying out of jail, and ultimately being convicted. Besides losing your freedom, a criminal conviction can damage your reputation, future job prospects, and in some situations, deny you specific civil and constitutional rights. Mitchell Cozad is an attorney that spent three years incarcerated and has a unique first-hand perspective for understanding what you’re going through. He has now dedicated his life to helping those facing the same.
This information is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or a legal opinion.
