Criminal defense can be confusing to many people. If you are accused of a crime, you may wonder what will happen next. You may not know how to hire a Maryland lawyer or what to do to defend yourself. Fortunately, in the United States, criminal procedure follows a series of steps. Knowing how the process works can help you to stay calm and make the correct decisions. Each case is different, so it is important to retain a criminal defense attorney in your location. Provided here is a general guide to criminal procedure.
Hiring an Attorney
When you are accused of a crime, your first step should be to hire a qualified criminal defense lawyer. Although you are entitled to defend yourself, this is not the best option. Unfamiliarity with the process could cause you to lose your case.
Remember that if you are unable to pay for an attorney, you are entitled to the services of a public defender. Whether this is the right option for you depends on your personal circumstances. Many public defenders are honest and hardworking, and will do the best that they can for each client.
Pretrial Phase
You and your Maryland attorney will work hard during the pretrial phase to prepare an appropriate criminal defense. There is paperwork to be filed, evidence to be gathered and witnesses to be collected. Ordinarily, your attorney will handle most of these tasks, asking for your input as required. If you are paying for your own attorney and costs are a concern, you may be able to negotiate to handle some tasks yourself that would normally be taken care of by an assistant. Ask if this is a possibility.
The Trial
This is your chance to demonstrate your innocence. Remember that the burden of proof is on the prosecution to prove that you committed the crime, not on you to prove that you did not. Your attorney should explain to you exactly what will happen and help you decide how best to plead your case. Although it is natural to be nervous, your job is simply to show up and tell the truth.
The Bottom Line
Criminal defense is a complicated topic. In the United States, the justice system follows a series of logical steps and procedures. A criminal defense attorney who is familiar with these procedures and skilled at preparing a defense is an essential ally in the process. Listen carefully to your lawyers instructions and take things day by day.
