What Does a Criminal Lawyer Do?

A criminal lawyer helps clients who are charged with a crime, such as a misdemeanor or felony. A criminal defense attorney may work to have the charges reduced or dismissed by using a variety of legal strategies. They might also help a client clear their name after they have been wrongfully accused of a crime.

Criminal lawyers enjoy the heady challenge of cases with life-changing ramifications for their clients. Many would-be attorneys discover their passion for criminal law through their first-year classes or internships, and they often change their career plans in order to pursue this path.

The right attorney will be familiar with the local laws and procedures that apply to your case. They will also have a working relationship with the prosecutor in your county, which could make a difference in the outcome of your case. An experienced attorney will have a track record of successful cases and may be more affordable than a newer attorney.

One of the most important things a criminal lawyer does is to protect their client’s rights. This might include rebutting testimony by a witness, proving innocence by examining evidence, and preventing overzealous prosecution. A criminal attorney might even be able to get a criminal conviction or record expunged after a certain period of time, which can prevent future employers from finding out about a client’s past indiscretions.