Everybody deserves a second chance sometimes. While there are certainly career criminals out there who have no desire to do better, there are also people who make bad choices or mistakes and it affects the rest of their lives. When you’re facing criminal charges, criminal lawyers in Memphis, TN can help you understand your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
How Does a Criminal Lawyer Help?
Generally speaking, the laws in Tennessee are very clear about what is or is not acceptable behavior. Certain things fall under criminal law. Having charges like this on your record can affect the rest of your life. A lawyer will help advise you on expectations, while also working to help you protect your rights and possibly avoid a conviction.
Understand Your Charges
You need to understand the charges you are facing and work with your attorney to develop a plan of action. For example, if the charges constitute a felony offense, there are times that your lawyer might be able to help you get this reduced to a misdemeanor. These specifics depend on your history and the severity of the crime in question.
A lawyer will understand the inner workings of the legal system so they can inform you of your options, guide you through the legal process, and support you every step of the way.
Prepare and Collect Supporting Evidence
As you prepare to go to court, your lawyer will need to build a case in your defense. This requires collecting evidence to support your case. Evidence can come in different forms. There may be a need for investigation, depending on the circumstance. These are some things that may be included in supporting evidence:
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Expert witnesses
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Eyewitness testimonies
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Photos or videos
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Police reports
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Investigation details
The opposing team will be building a case against you, but your lawyer will know the right approach to take.
Plea Bargains and Negotiations
Depending on your case, a plea bargain may be an ideal option to reduce your sentencing or your charges. With a plea bargain, you plead a certain way and in exchange you get a lesser sentence. Plea bargains usually mean pleading guilty, which means you could have a conviction on your record.
In addition to plea bargains, there are sometimes negotiation options to reduce your sentencing. Every possibility will depend on your case, which is why hiring a legal defense is so important. If you can get your sentence reduced or even reduce the charge itself, this can work in your favor.
Hire Legal Defense to Assist You
Whether you’re facing first-time charges or you were wrongfully accused, criminal lawyers in Memphis, TN, can take a look at your case and help you fight for the best outcome. They will work through each step of the process with you and seek to help you reduce charges or sentencing if it is a possibility.
You’re not in this alone. Work with an experienced lawyer to support you through it.
