Local Criminal Lawyers for Free Case Evaluations

Get Your Free Case Evaluation Here:

What is Criminal Law?

Criminal law is the type of law that deals with crimes against the public. People who have committed crimes, like murder, drug crimes, burglary or assault, will be sentenced by the laws that Congress and their state have set based on their criminal actions. If a person is arrested, then they may be charged, tried, sentenced and imprisoned if found guilty of the charges set against them. Witnesses are called and evidence is collected by the District Attorney's office to support the conviction. Defense criminal law attorneys are called on to defend their clients and dismiss the charges brought up against them. They may work on lowering sentencing or jail time if a plea bargain is arranged.

Criminal law divides actions into felonies and misdemeanors. If a person is charged with a felony, then they are most likely going to face more than one year of jail time; however, misdemeanors may only mean small fines or incarceration for less than a year. The jury or the judge must prove that the accuser committed the crime beyond any reasonable doubt before rendering a guilty verdict. The most important aspect of the United States criminal law is that people are innocent until proven guilty.

What does a Criminal Lawyer do?

Criminal lawyers are hired by clients to defend their cases in front of a judge or jury. An attorney’s responsibility is to prove that the client did not commit the crime with evidence, an alibi or other defense claim. Common defense claims include self-defense, under the influence of drugs or alcohol or an insanity defense. Criminal lawyers must examine their client’s case and all aspects of the case thoroughly. They are also responsible for informing their clients on all their rights and options based on their alleged crime and particular situation.

If the criminal lawyer cannot get his or her client off of all the charges and prove their innocence, then they may work to lesser the charges, fines or jail time. Criminal lawyers can be hired through acquaintances or family ties, but if a defendant cannot afford an attorney, then they will receive a state or government appointed attorney to defend their case. Some are billed by the hour while others have a flat fee, but either way, accused criminals should hire experienced and knowledgeable attorneys familiar with their type of case.