Criminal attorneys represent you if you have been charged with a crime. Serious crimes can leave people facing a loss of freedom, fines and a criminal record. Having a felony record can seriously affect your life and make it more difficult to find housing and employment.

Criminal law is the area of law that governs the penal code and the prosecution of those breaking the penal law as laid out by different jurisdictions. US citizens have access to one of the greatest justice systems in the world. You are immediately read your Miranda Rights after arrest and before questioning so you are informed of some of those rights. When you are told that you have the right to remain silent you should take these words to heart. You can opt to have an attorney present when you are questioned so that your rights are protected. You do not have to incriminate yourself by giving information to investigators. You also have the right to an attorney whether private or in cases when someone cannot afford that they will be assigned a public defender. The more serious the crime the more serious the punishment you will face. Working with a criminal lawyer that is familiar with the prosecutors office you can attempt to work out a plea deal or, if need be they will represent you in court. It is the job of the prosecutor to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. It is the job of the criminal attorney to introduce as much doubt as possible to the judge or jury. You will have the choice of a judge or jury to hear your case. Most people opt for a jury of their peers as it seems easier to instill doubt in regular people than an experienced judge. The jury is given instructions that state that the evidence must meet the threshold of guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. This is addition to other instructions about applying the law and not emotion to their deliberations. If a person is guilty of the crimes in which they were charged it may be in their best interests to take a plea deal if one is offered. The prosecutor may offer a reduced sentence in exchange for a guilty plea. Often in cases of domestic violence or drug possession you may get a deal that requires you complete treatment or anger management and upon completion your felony will be reduced to a misdemeanor. An experienced criminal lawyer will be able to lay out all the likely options and help you figure out which is best for your situation.