Criminal Defense Lawyer

Queen Law

Anyone facing criminal charges should hire a lawyer to advocate for their rights and protect their interests. Try to contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as you can in the event criminal charges are filed against you. If possible, do so as soon you are out of police custody.

A criminal defense lawyer is there to provide guidance through your legal problems, defending you as necessary. Certainly, the legal system can be very complex. If you’re facing troubles with the law, it is critical to have someone with experience dealing with the court system at your side.

When You Should Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Speak To A Lawyer

You should to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible after being released following your arrest. This is particularly important in the event there are major criminal allegations against you. In many cases, though, you’ll be released and then receive a date for your arraignment. An arraignment is basically when you’ll hear the charges against you. You’ll have the opportunity to plead guilty or not guilty. After your arraignment, you might have the chance to meet with the prosecutor. This is a key reason why it is helpful to have legal counsel at this point. Meeting with a prosecutor is something you should not walk into on your own.

Gain an understanding

Speaking to your criminal defense lawyer before the arraignment allows you to gain an understanding of the charges against you. Also, you’ll understand the punishments you might face in the event you are found guilty. This allows you to consider the benefits and disadvantages of fighting the charges or requesting a plea bargain

One of the main benefits to seeking legal representation immediately is that a criminal defense lawyer may be able to get a dismissal of the charges even before they’re brought against you. In addition, a criminal defense lawyer may negotiate other rights to which you’re entitled. This can help increase the chances of a best-case scenario outcome. Without a doubt, timing is important. It’s essential to have a defense lawyer negotiating for your rights soon after you are arrested.

Mediator

Furthermore, a criminal defense lawyer functions as a mediator in between yourself and the other parties involved. A best-case situation is when the other party agrees to drop the charges that resulted in your arrest. Each criminal case is unique. Your lawyer determines which arguments and aspects of the case to apply to remove charges relating to the alleged crimes. Also, your lawyer can reduce sentencing through plea bargains. In order to reduce a sentence, your lawyer negotiates with the prosecutor. In some instances, it may be possible to eliminate some or even all of the charges. If the court determines you are guilty of the charges, your lawyer might be able to negotiate for lesser time served. Or, for you to take part in a rehabilitation program that will help keep you out of the criminal justice system. In discussing your case, a criminal defense lawyer advises the most effective way to go to obtain a sentence reduction. In some situations, pleading guilty can lead to a shorter sentence

When it comes to witness statements and evidence, your criminal defense lawyer gathers what is essential to help build your strongest case.

Going through the criminal justice system can be an emotionally difficult experience. However, the counsel of a criminal defense lawyer helps alleviate the emotional aspect of a criminal trial. Your lawyer will explain the realities of the system so you’ll always understand what you might be up against during a trial. Also, your criminal defense lawyer can review court rules and regulations with you, which will help you remain aware of the proceedings.

If you’re facing criminal charges and the potential for serving time in jail, consult with a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Contact the Queen Law Firm for a consultation today. We serve clients through the Bloomington-Normal region.

Practice Areas

Our Attorney

Craig Queen

Over 20yrs practicing law in Illinois

Criminal Defense Lawyer