There is often a lot of misinformation about defense attorneys, which makes people reluctant to seek legal help. You will find someone facing criminal charges and needing a defense lawyer but fail to secure one due to misconceptions. Below, we will debunk common misconceptions people have about criminal lawyers and ensure people can make informed choices.

Myth 1: Public Defenders Are as Effective as Defense Lawyers

A public defender is provided by the government, and they are usually free. This ensures that people who cannot pay for legal counsel are represented as well. However, a public defender should be your last resort. Most of the time, they are overburdened with work and dealing with multiple cases simultaneously. Therefore, they might fail to give your case the attention it deserves or miss something that could have secured your freedom.

Myth 2: All Defense Attorneys Are the Same

Just like any other industry, some people are more skilled and experienced than others. When choosing an attorney, experience plays such a vital role. The more experience an attorney has, the better they are likely to represent you. This is because they have dealt with many cases before and therefore have a better understanding of legal matters. They also know which tactics a prosecutor might use in court and develop ways to counter them.

Myth 3: To Hire a Good One, You Need a Lot of Money

A bigger price tag does not necessarily mean that a lawyer is good. Therefore, to get good defense, you do not necessarily have to be rich. Whether a lawyer is good or not is determined by experience and track record, not the cost.

Myth 4: Any Attorney Can Represent You Against a Criminal Charge

When facing a criminal charge, you will not contact a personal injury lawyer to represent you. There are lawyers in various fields. Just because an entertainment lawyer is your friend does not mean you call them when facing a criminal charge. Work with a lawyer specializing in criminal defense as they have skills in that field and know effective ways to represent you.

Myth 5: Criminal Defense Attorneys Are Shady

People say bad things about lawyers all the time, but defense attorneys take the most heat. Some TV shows and novels have painted a bad picture of these lawyers, which is also not doing much to help. However, lawyers are not shady but people who want to help their clients. They are aware that they are not above the law, and so they do not employ bad practices to win cases. With the time and money invested in becoming a lawyer, they would not want to lose all that because of breaking the law to win cases.

Myth 6: All Attorneys Give Free Consultations to Potential Clients

Not all defense lawyers give this complimentary service to prospective clients. Therefore, before approaching one, double-check or call before time. This will prevent you from being sent a bill for their time.

Myth 6: All Criminal Defense Lawyers Have a Glamorous Life

Just like any other profession, defense attorneys have to get paid for what they do, which is a lot. Most people only see what happens in court when the attorney is trying to defend their client. However, a lot of work is done outside the court, from conducting investigations, drafting and filing motions, reviewing pleadings, and preparing for pre-trials. Even though vindicating a client is fulfilling, there is a lot done to get there. It, therefore, takes a lot of hard work for one to be an accomplished attorney.

Myth 7: You Will Only See Your Attorney Inside the Courtroom

As mentioned earlier, there is a lot of work done outside the courtroom. The attorney, therefore, has to meet with you outside court most times to discuss various issues. They will also have to work with you on finding evidence and prepping you for the courtroom.

Myth 8: If You Plan to Plead Guilty, You Do Not Have to Hire a Defense Attorney

Most people assume that when one is making a guilty plea, they do not need the services of a defense lawyer. This is a bad assumption. First, seek the counsel of a skilled attorney before pleading guilty. Even if you are decisive, the attorney can advise you on ways to help reduce your sentence. Know your options first and be informed before rushing into any decisions.

Forget about everything you have watched on TV shows or read in a fictional novel. Criminal defense lawyers aim to help you with your case. Therefore, if you or a loved one needs a defense lawyer, reach out to an experienced attorney in your area and get the legal help you need.