If you have been charged with assault, you can represent yourself, work with a public defender or hire a Fort Bend assault lawyer. All options have pros and cons, but most people will have a better chance of mounting a successful defense if they hire an experienced, private Fort Bend assault attorney. This guide will explain why.
Consequences of Losing Your Case That a Fort Bend Assault Lawyer Can Help You Avoid
Depending on the severity of the charges against you, if you lose your criminal case, you may face incarceration, fines and lose your rights, such as the ability to possess firearms. Additionally, your conviction will be in the public record and may make it more difficult for you to obtain employment and housing.
Benefits of Hiring a Fort Bend Assault Attorney
When you hire a domestic violence lawyer in Sugar Land, you get to choose a Fort Bend assault attorney with experience in your type of case and who you trust. Additionally, you will have access to your lawyer through phone calls, email, and in-person meetings. Most private Fort Bend attorneys have significantly smaller caseloads than public defenders and can provide much more individual attention.
Alternative Resolutions for Your Case
Not every criminal case needs to go to trial. An experienced Fort Bend assault lawyer will analyze your case to determine if an alternative resolution would best serve you. Depending on your charges, you may qualify for alternative sentencing that avoids you having a criminal record. Additionally, a knowledgeable Fort Bend assault attorney will understand and explain the consequences of accepting a plea bargain, such as registering as a sex offender if you have been charged with a sex crime or facing deportation if you are an immigrant.
Thorough Investigation
A Fort Bend assault attorney is experienced at conducting a thorough investigation to uncover new evidence, such as witness testimony that might otherwise be missed. Attorneys understand how to interview and prepare witnesses for trial properly.
Reasons You Should Hire a Fort Bend Assault Attorney Instead of Representing Yourself
The procedures involved in successfully defending a criminal court case can be difficult to navigate for someone without the specialized training that a Fort Bend assault attorney has. A simple mistake could have lasting consequences for the outcome of your trial. Additionally, it is difficult for people representing themselves to negotiate with prosecutors. Prosecutors rarely offer a plea bargain when they feel confident they will win their case. This gives them little incentive to offer reduced charges or listen to legal arguments when dealing with someone who is not a Fort Bend assault attorney.
Common Mistakes Made by Defendants Representing Themselves
Experienced attorneys sometimes make errors, but an inexperienced person attempting to mount their defense is far more likely to make mistakes. There are several errors that non-attorneys can create, such as:
- Failure to obtain pretrial discovery or use it effectively
- Unable to properly cross-examine witnesses
- Not understanding how to introduce evidence
- Not knowing when or how to make motions
- Lack of understanding of how to select jurors or appeal to the jury
- Not knowing how to find experts or when to call them
Reasons You Should Hire a Fort Bend Assault Attorney Instead of a Public Defender
Public defenders are usually a better option than representing yourself because they are typically experienced fort bend assault attorney who has tried many criminal cases. Additionally, they may be more affordable to people with little or no income than a private Fort Bend assault lawyer. However, there are still downsides to going with a public defender:
- Less individual attention because they often have hundreds of cases
- May be motivated to go to trial when a plea-bargain would be better because they are trying to gain experience
- Often does not have time to return emails or speak with clients about their case
- Defendants don’t get to choose who their public defender is
Let Us Provide You With the Best Possible Defense
David Hunter is a former Texas judge and prosecutor with 30 years of legal experience. He is committed to defending your rights, regardless of what type of crime you have been charged with. To find out more about how our office can help you, contact us by phone at (281) 972-6451 or on our website.
Why Is It Important to Hire a Fort Bend Assault Lawyer? | David Hunter Law Firm — Sugar Land, Texas
