Category: Criminal Law

Top 5 Reasons You Need a Criminal Lawyer – Guest Post

   

Criminal Lawyer

Facing criminal charges is an overwhelming experience where you go through a rush of emotions at once! This is because such charges can significantly impact your life and land you behind bars. In such a situation, hire an experienced criminal lawyer to safeguard your rights and reputation. If you are facing criminal charges, we have got you covered. This article discusses top reasons to hire a criminal lawyer. Here we go!

Reasons you need a criminal lawyer

1. Legal expertise and knowledge

Criminal law and procedure are specialization areas for criminal lawyers. They understand all law intricacies, including statutes, precedents, and judicial processes. Their proficiency enables them to handle your case’s complexities, recognize pertinent legal concerns, and formulate efficacious defense tactics customized to your circumstances.

2. Protecting your rights

Throughout the legal procedure, a lawyer will try to safeguard your legal rights. Some major rights include:

  • The rights to legal representation
  • the right to stay silent

Your lawyer will teach you ways to interact with the law enforcement. Your attorney ensures all illegal evidence is excluded from trial. Further, they ensure none of your rights are violated during the interrogation process.

3. Case investigation and preparation

Criminal defense attorneys thoroughly examine the circumstances and supporting documentation in your case. They review police reports and speak with witnesses. They also examine tangible evidence and evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of the prosecution’s case. Because of their preparation, they can put together a potent defensive plan that will protect you as much as possible.

4. Negotiating with prosecutors

Criminal defense attorneys are great negotiators. They get in touch with prosecutors and negotiate for an agreement. They will try to bargain for less severe charges or punishments in return for your compliance, taking ownership of the situation, or other advantageous conditions. Reaching a plea agreement might save you time, money, and possibly worse penalties than going to trial. It can also frequently produce a more favorable conclusion.

5. Courtroom presentations

If your criminal case undergoes trial, your lawyer should be experienced enough to handle courtroom representation. They cross-examine the eyewitness, present all evidence, and argue in court for your rights. Thus, you must choose a lawyer with courtroom experience and expertise; otherwise, handling such a situation becomes a task.

Final Words

make sure you hire a professional criminal lawyer if you want to safeguard your rights. They will navigate all complexities and build a strong defense.

Consumer Rights and Criminal Law: Understanding Legal Protections Against Fraudulent Practices – Guest Post

   

Criminal Law

Consumer rights are fundamental protections for individuals who engage in commercial transactions. Such rights include various entitlements designed to safeguard their interests in the marketplace. Embedded within the framework of criminal law, consumer protection serves as a barricade against fraudulent practices that weaken trust and integrity in economic exchanges.

This article explores the relationship between consumer rights and criminal law.We will examine the significance of robust legal safeguards in combatting deceptive tactics aimed at exploiting unsuspecting consumers.

Consumer Rights Legislation

Consumer rights legislation has evolved significantly over the years.These rights tracetheir roots back to the late 19th century when industrialization led to mass production and widespread consumerism. The historical trajectory of consumer protection laws reflects an effort to address power imbalances between consumers and producers.

Initially, the focus was on issues related to product safety and fair pricing. Over the years, these laws have expanded to include a wide range of rights and protections for consumers. Thus includes the right to accurate information and recourse for faulty products or services.

Key provisions of consumer rights legislation include the following:

  • Prohibitionagainst deceptive advertising
  • Requirements for clear labeling and product information
  • Mechanisms for dispute resolution
  • Enforcement measures to hold businesses accountable for unlawful practices.

The objectives of such legislation are to promote fairnessand consumer confidence in the marketplace. The ultimate goal is to promote a conducive environment for economic transactions while mitigating the risk of exploitation or harm to consumers.

Types of Fraudulent Practices

Here are the various types of fraudulent practices common in the consumer world.

· Financial Fraud

  • Scams

Perpetrators devise intricate schemes to dupe individuals into parting with their money under false pretenses.They promise unrealistically high returns or pose as legitimate entities to solicit investments.

  • Ponzi Schemes

Fraudsters use funds from new investors to pay returns to earlier investors.It creates an illusion of profitability while ultimately collapsing under the weight of unsustainable payouts.

Criminals steal personal information like Social Security numbers, credit card details, or passwords to assume someone else’s identity for financial gain.It leads to unauthorized transactions or fraudulent accounts in the victim’s name.

· Product Fraud

  • Counterfeiting

Illegitimate reproduction of branded goods, often of inferior quality, deceive consumers into purchasing items they believe to be authentic.

  • Mislabeling

False or misleading labeling of products regarding their contents, origin, or quality, misguide consumers and potentially endanger their health or safety.

  • Adulteration

Tampering with products by adding inferior ingredients or diluting substances, compromises their quality or efficacy while deceiving consumers about their true nature.

· Service Fraud

  • Deceptive Marketing

Misrepresentation of services through false advertising or exaggerated claims entice consumers with promises that are not upheld in practice.

  • False Advertising

It involves deliberate dissemination of misleading information about products or services through various channels, such as print, broadcast media, or online platforms.

  • Breach of Contract

Failure to fulfill obligations outlined in a contractual agreement, like providing promised services or delivering goods as specified, result in financial losses or harm to consumers.

Legal Framework for Combating Fraudulent Practices

The legal framework for combating fraudulent practices involves comprehensive statutes and regulations.These help authorities deter, investigate, and prosecute offenses perpetrated against consumers. Criminal offenses related to consumer fraud include illicit activities, ranging from financial scams and identity theft to product counterfeiting and deceptive marketing practices.

Investigation and prosecution procedures include rigorous scrutiny by law enforcement agencies.It involves specialized units dedicated to combating fraud and white-collar crime. These procedures include gathering evidence, conducting interviews, and collaborating with regulatory bodies and other stakeholders to build robust cases against perpetrators.

Regulatory agencies play a crucial role in consumer protection by enforcing compliance with laws and regulations. They conduct inspectionsand impose sanctions on entities found to engage in fraudulent behavior. Law enforcement agencies and regulatory bodiescollaborate to investigate allegations of fraudand safeguard consumer rights within the legal framework.

Importance of Public Awareness and Education in Preventing Consumer Fraud

Public awareness and education play are vital in preventing consumer fraud by empowering individuals with the knowledge necessary to recognize and resist deceptive practices. Informed consumers can identify red flags, like suspicious offers or misleading advertisements, and make better decisions about their purchases and financial transactions.

Consumer rights forums like The Consumer Shield help promotea culture of vigilance and critical thinking helps public awareness campaigns mitigate the risk of falling victim to fraud schemes. Moreover, raising awareness about consumer rights and options for remedies can help individuals assert their rights and seek help in cases of misconduct. Investing in public awareness initiatives serves as a proactive strategy to enhance consumer protectionand uphold the integrity of commercial transactions.

Bottom line

Safeguarding consumer rights is essential for promoting trustand integrity in economic transactions. Moving forward, there is a pressing need for efforts to strengthen consumer rights protections. Some key steps in the process include advocating for legislative reforms, enhancing enforcement mechanisms, and promoting accountability for offenders.

Moreover, education about consumer rights and fraud prevention strategies is necessary for empowering individuals to manage the complexities of the modern marketplace. A collective commitment to promoting consumer welfare and upholding ethical standards in commerce can helpcreate a more equitable and transparent economic world.

The Benefits of Outside General Counsel Services in Criminal Law – Guest Post

   

Criminal Law

From the standpoint of criminal law, reputable legal services can be life-saving acquittals for the litigants as well as companies on legal issues. Another technique has grown in popularity which has been around for some time now and deals with the utilization of an Outside General Counsel (COG) services. The provision of these services to eligible candidates will usher in a wave of benefits by offering the skills knowledge, perspective, and guidance tailored to each person’s problem within the correctional system.

Expertise in Criminal Law Defense

An outside gc have a lot of experience to share with criminal law defense. Potential clients who hire attorneys with a good reputation in cases of crimes can access a much-needed judge of credibility and competence that is crucial in dealing with impenetrable issues of law.

Despite the intensity of this field, where an attorney is expected to know the intricacies of criminal statutes, construct defense strategies, or negotiate plea deals, the OGC lawyers are trained to handle the complexities of criminal cases.

Also, the OGC team has outstanding ability and lots of experience on the one hand with foresight and on the other hand with creating the right solutions to challenges and protecting clients’ interests.

By mastering criminal law principles and precedents, criminal law attorneys specialized in criminal law could offer invaluable advice from the first investigation and through the hearings.

Strategic Legal Counsel

The most essential benefit of involving Outside General Counsel services in criminal law cases is the provision of sound strategic counsel. OGC attorneys collaborate with clients to offer and customize legal solutions according to the unique needs of the clients.

The strategic principle, in this case, involves a deep case study analysis, strengths, and weaknesses identification, and the development of a solid defense strategy.

With their carefully designed strategic plans and meticulous preparations for each case, OGC lawyers try to get the best possible results for their clients with negotiation, litigation, or alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. By putting law enforcement strategies in line with the client’s aims and goals, OGC services offer adequate guidance through the criminal justice system.

Cost-Effective Legal Solutions

The Outside General Counsel services are a cost-competitive option for clients who are faced with criminal charges against traditional law firms. Clients can get ongoing legal help at a fixed price through OGC arrangements, so instead of paying high hourly rates and retainer fees, they can utilize top-notch legal services.

In addition, OGC services are fee-based, either on a subscription or retainer model, allowing clients to plan their budgets and remain flexible in managing their legal expenses. Such a model advocates for an on-time engagement with legal counsel and gives the clients a chance for early resolution of legal issues that could lead to costly litigations or lawsuits.

Dedicated Client-Centric Approach

Another noteworthy aspect of the Outside General Counsel services is their focus on fostering long-term, mutual relationships with clients. In contrast to the traditional practice of legal firms, which can be laden with ad hoc cases, the OGC attorneys take a more holistic approach that sees beyond individual cases to the client’s long-term interests and objectives.

Attorneys of OGC can achieve this by analyzing the business or personal needs of the client with enough depth and then providing legal solutions appropriate to their strategic goals. This client-centered approach develops trust and transparency, thus making clients feel more confident as they make their needed legal decisions.

Pathways to Specialized Resources and Networks

OGC services often open a path to a large community of lawyers, and resources that add to a qualitative level of representation in criminal cases. Moreover, they are not only in constant communication with forensic analysts but also rely on experts and investigators to complement their defense positions.

Besides working on OGC cases, the lawyers in OGC firms may also have access to proprietary databases, research tools, and legal technology platforms which can help them manage their cases easily and increase efficiency. OGC attorneys can leverage and utilize such niche avenues to provide quintessential legal services and be more adaptable to the ever-changing needs of their clients.

Flexibility and Scalability

Another benefit of the Outside General Counsel services is their ability to adapt to new requirements and scale their resources to meet fluctuating legal needs. If the client is facing a minor offense or a complex investigation, an OGC firm can outsource its services so that the relevant amount of assistance can be provided.

This flexibility is not limited to legal representation but also includes other services provided such as compliance audits, risk assessments, and training programs. OGC firms provide one-stop legal solutions for clients since they can tackle various legal matters without having to engage with several service providers.

Mitigation of Legal Risks and Liabilities

An engagement with Outside General Counsel services can reduce clients’ criminal law legal exposure and liabilities. OGC lawyers undertake a case-by-case risk analysis to pinpoint legal perils and provide preventive guidance to limit liability where possible.

Whether it is following compliance procedures, conducting a detailed internal investigation, or negotiating settlements, OGC services are aimed at safeguarding their clients from legal consequences such as fines. Through timely management of legal risks, OGC lawyers prevent damage to the reputation, assets, and interests of clients confronting criminal complaints.

Enhanced Communication and Collaboration

Communication and teamwork are the cornerstones of good legal representation in criminal cases. Outside General Counsel services focus on the creation of reliable communication structures that facilitate constant collaboration between the lawyers and the clients.

The OGC attorneys’ updates, status reports, and consultations on strategy make sure that clients are constantly aware and play a role in the decision-making process. This open and transparent communication promotes harmony between the Legal team and the client for unified and coordinated efforts to achieve a compromise.

Ethical Standards and Confidentiality Compliance

Ethical conduct, client confidentiality, and other values are to be observed by lawyers at all times, especially when it involves criminal matters. The Outside General Counsel services adhere to ethical guidelines and professional standards that help to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of the client’s data.

OGC counselors follow the attorney-client privilege and protect delicate information from criminal cases and investigations. Such dedication to confidentiality builds trust and self-assurance in clients, enabling them to unveil sensitive details to their attorneys without the anxiety stirring from the risk of exposure and compromise.

Long-Term Strategic Partnerships

Alongside immediate legal assistance, Outside General Counsel services develop lasting strategic engagements with clients that evolve into a true legal partner and allies in traversing the legal terrain.

Regular interaction with OGC lawyers enables them to intelligently predict emerging legal trends, regulatory shifts, and risks that may negatively influence the client’s business or personal development. Through this forward-looking approach and foresight of future issues, the service providers of outside gc help their clients keep pace and flourish in a dynamic legal environment.

A Beginner’s Guide to Criminal Law and Its Impact on Society – Guest Post

   

Criminal Law

Criminal law refers to the set of rules and regulations that are put in place by different government bodies to define specific behaviors that are classified as offenses and outline the punishments that are applicable for such acts. As a beginner, understanding criminal law can feel overwhelming, especially with all the legal jargon and complexity involved. However, with a little bit of research, anyone can gain a basic understanding of how criminal law works and how it impacts society. In this beginner’s guide, we dive into the key concepts of criminal law and its impact on society.

The Basics of Criminal Law

Criminal law is a branch of law that deals with offenses that are committed against the state, society, or any individual. It outlines offenses such as theft, murder, assault, and fraud, among others. In a criminal proceeding, the defendant is charged with committing the offense, and if found guilty, they can face fines, probation, or imprisonment.

One of the critical features of criminal law is the principle of “innocent until proven guilty.” This means that the accused is not assumed guilty until there is sufficient evidence to prove their guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The burden of proof lies with the prosecutor, who must prove the defendant’s guilt through sufficient evidence and testimonies.

Different Categories of Crimes

Crimes can be categorized into different groups, including misdemeanors, felonies, and infractions. Misdemeanors are minor offenses that are usually punished by short-term incarceration or fines. Felonies, on the other hand, are serious offenses that can lead to long-term imprisonment, probation, or fines. Infractions are minor offenses that are punishable by fines but do not have any incarceration.

Impact of Criminal Law on Society

Criminal law plays a significant role in maintaining law and order in society. It outlines the rules and regulations that people must abide by, thus ensuring that individuals respect each other’s rights and freedoms. It also creates a sense of justice, where those who commit offenses are held accountable for their actions, which promotes order in society.

Criminal law also has a deterrent effect on individuals who may consider committing offenses. The punishment and consequences laid out in criminal law serve as a warning to individuals contemplating committing crimes, thus reducing criminal activity and its impact on society.

The Criminal Justice System

The criminal justice system involves different entities, including law enforcement agencies, courts, and correctional facilities. Law enforcement agencies are responsible for investigating crimes and ensuring that offenders are apprehended. The courts are responsible for determining the guilt or innocence of the accused, while correctional facilities are responsible for punishing and rehabilitating offenders.

Importance of Hiring a Criminal Lawyer

If you are facing criminal charges, it is crucial to hire a criminal lawyer who can represent you in court, like those at the Law Offices of Jonathan Steele. A criminal lawyer can provide you with legal advice, protect your rights, and defend you in court. They can also negotiate for a reduced sentence or plea bargain, depending on the charges against you.

Criminal law serves as a critical tool in society to ensure that people remain accountable for their actions and that justice is served. Understanding the basics of criminal law and its impact on society is essential, especially for beginners who may not be familiar with the legal system. The legal system, including law enforcement agencies, courts, correctional facilities, and lawyers, plays a crucial role in upholding criminal law and ensuring that justice is served to individuals who violate it.

How To Stay Out Of Trouble With The Law – Guest Post

   

criminal defense lawyer

How to Stay Out of Trouble With The Law 

Going through life with a clean criminal record is not as easy as everyone may think. Even the most law-abiding individual can find themselves running afoul of the law in their lifetime.

Any many cases, even the slightest criminal conviction can wreak havoc on someone’s life. So follow along as we learn the best ways of how to stay out of trouble with the law.

Hanging Around Criminals

This tip may sound like common sense, but how many of us think of our friends as criminals. Sure, they may bend the law now and then when the outcome doesn’t affect someone else. But law enforcement and the courts will have a different opinion from you on what a minor crime is.

Even if you are well-intentioned and do not think you are participating in a crime, just being with your friends when one takes place can get you arrested. If your friends are doing something that you would not do, step away and don’t be anywhere around when it takes place.

Traveling

First, learn what the law is in your state. Local law enforcement is consistently enforcing local ordinances. Most of these laws are misdemeanors, but there are some serious ones on the books too. Usually, if you get caught up in something like this, the local police officers will enforce the ordinance more often than not.

Laws can vary from state to state. If you are visiting, make sure you know the laws of the land before doing anything. 

If you are going to be outside the United States, make sure you do your homework ahead of time. Many countries have immigration laws that prevent foreigners from engaging in certain activities. In some cases, this can mean prison time, even if it is a misdemeanor offense back home.

Driving

Learn the traffic laws in your state. Driving too fast, not having proof of insurance, and even driving under the influence are all offenses that you can get arrested for. However, don’t think because it is a misdemeanor or low-level offense that you won’t be punished severely either.

For example, in Lousiana, first-time DWI offenders can face serious jail time and steep fines. In other cases, your license can be suspended for a year or more. Even once you get it back, having a DWI conviction on your record will greatly affect how much you pay for car insurance premiums.

If you are going to drink and drive, make sure you have a designated driver, call a taxi or use public transportation. There are no two ways about it. You will be caught if you drive over the legal alcohol limit and end up hurting yourself or someone else.

Have A Good Attorney

Being arrested is a severe business that can follow someone around for the rest of their lives. If you find yourself in trouble with the law, an attorney may be your best answer. 

Trying to fight a court case without an attorney is like going to war with a pea shooter. They know the law and what you need to do to represent yourself effectively in court. You can research attorneys in your area and find the right one for you.

A good attorney should be able to get your charges reduced or dropped altogether, depending on the evidence they can present. If you are caught engaging in any activity covered by the tips above, make sure you contact an attorney right away.

 Not doing so can lead to more charges being filed against you, which may not be able to be dropped later on. Even if they cannot get the charges dropped, you don’t want to find out what the worst-case scenario for your life is without one.

6 Tips To Build A Strong Criminal Defense Strategy – Guest Post

   

Being accused of a crime, whether you’re responsible or not, is perhaps a problematic experience. It’s a critical circumstance that demands undivided focus to achieve a great outcome. Also, given the possible legal repercussions of a judgment, the most successful way to beat your innocence is to plan and develop a criminal defense strategy.

DUI Attorneys Brisbane helps you in getting out of legal difficulties as quickly as possible.

Eight primary portions manage your excellent defense approach:

The defendant’s account of what happened, why it happened, and his believability.

  • Witness credibility and testimony
  • Facts and tangible proof that can be proven.
  • Police reports, inaccuracies, and reliability
  • Expert opinions, third-party reports, and testimony
  • The charge under the Penal Code and the components of the offense must be proven.
  • Strategy and history of criminal prosecutors
  • Judicial precedence and the judge’s background.
  • A criminal defense lawyer’s role is to determine the appropriate defense attorney techniques after evaluating the relevant facts.

Putting Together a Criminal Defense Strategy:

i) Maintain the Services of a Reliable Criminal Defense Attorney:

Being charged with a crime may be a frightening experience. And unless you’re a legal expert, you may require the services of a reliable criminal defense attorney to manage your case. They may thoroughly evaluate your case and give you significant legal advice on the best steps to pursue, especially in your criminal defense strategy, using their abilities, knowledge, and experience in criminal defense law.

As a result, it’s advisable to gather at least three possibilities before selecting one to identify and employ the correct lawyer for your scenario. To increase your chances of success, ensure that the legal practitioner hires specialists in situations similar to yours.

ii) Understand the charges against you:

It is critical to understand the charges against you to construct an excellent criminal defense plan properly. By familiarizing yourself with the situation, you and your criminal defense attorney will know what to do and what is at stake if you are convicted.

Consequently, you may be able to plan an effective defense strategy and collaborate with the correct individuals to prove your case.

iii) Ye have obtained an Alibi :

An alibi is any proof that tells a court that you were not there when the crime was committed and can be utilized to your advantage. You cannot be found guilty if you demonstrate that you were unable to be there at the crime site when it was committed.

iv) Showing insanity:

If you can show it to a judge, this kind of defense approach may be employed. The legal definition of insanity is “the incapacity to differentiate right from wrong,” but demonstrating it in court is more complicated than you might expect. You must submit proof from a psychiatrist or other healthcare expert to establish that your actions resulted from insanity, and you may face rehabilitation rather than treatment. So, filing an insanity plea doesn’t imply that you have discovered the fabled winning ticket.

v) Gather evidence:

In addition to learning the complete background of your case, it’s critical to collect the evidence that can be used to build a solid criminal defense. These types of evidence can be used to strengthen your defense scheme and ensure a favorable verdict in court.

So, to begin gathering evidence, locate a criminal defense attorney who understands how to attend the crime scene and secure any essential papers, including witness statements. That way, you can make most of whatever evidence available to you, bolstering your defense and increasing your chances of having your case dropped or your charges lowered.

vi) Do not reveal any information about your case to anybody else :

Creating a criminal defense plan is never a simple task. Working with a specialized attorney to assist you in defending your charges isn’t the only thing you need to do. However, it is also essential to do things that will not jeopardize your prospects of successfully defending yourself and obtaining a reasonable conclusion. This includes avoiding discussing your case with anybody other than your legal representative.

This might be accomplished by invoking your ability to reside quietly and retaining competent legal representation throughout the police inquiry. It’s also a good idea not to discuss your condition with your friends or post anything on social media. These might help you in developing an effective criminal defense plan.

A lawyer can teach you more about Legal Defenses: 

Due to the nature of your case and the specific circumstances, you may be able to pursue a variety of criminal defense techniques. Whether you intend to plead “truth” or entirely dispute the claims, a criminal defense attorney will be able to explain all of your alternatives and potential defenses in your case. Consult an expert Criminal Defense Lawyers in Brisbane immediately to discover further information.

The Role of Qualified Criminal Lawyers in Defense Proceedings – Guest Post

   

Criminal lawyer

Criminal law which is also popularly referred to as penal law is the body of law that relates to various criminal cases and punishment. When an act that omits public law is steered by someone, then this is referred to as a crime. The field of criminal law majorly regulates the social conduct & behavior of persons that are harmful, threatening or somehow endangering to the safety, health, moral welfare of property and people. Criminal law involves prosecution and then it is eventually tagged as a crime. Criminal law also includes the punishment of those individuals who tends to violate certain laws. The punishment can be in the form of imprisonment, property forfeiture, capital fine etc. A criminal lawyer usually deals with all types of criminal cases.

What is the role of criminal lawyers?

Criminal lawyers are also known as criminal defense lawyers who specialize in defending the individuals & companies that are charged with certain criminal activities. Most criminal lawyers usually practice privately or run a law firm. Several criminal lawyers are also being hired by corporate companies to manage certain legal affairs. Also, some criminal lawyers work for the government and non-profit agencies. The criminal lawyers have expertise in handling a large range of criminal cases that range from sex crimes, domestic violence crimes, theft, drug crimes, embezzlement and several other forms of crime. The criminal lawyers usually represent the defendants or accused who are facing criminal charges in the different types of trial courts & appellate courts.

The overall scope of a criminal lawyer extensively includes trial, bail hearings, revocation hearings, post-conviction resolutions and appeals. This also includes certain pleas representing the accused in a court of law. The work and responsibilities of a criminal lawyer are to build a very strong defence & develop an effective case strategy. He holds the responsibility of drafting, filing & arguing on the behalf of the accused. A criminal lawyer’s work also involves effectively negotiating with the opposition or prosecution to plea at lesser costs. A criminal lawyer is also responsible for representing the accused at the various appellate stages whenever required. The criminal lawyers have excellent written and oral advocacy skills for arguing with the opposition in front of the court for persuading a jury. Criminal lawyers also possess research & investigative skills which are all crucial in building the cases for the clients & establishing a very strong defence. A professional criminal lawyer is hired by an accused of protecting all his rights and if he does not engage one then the accused can unknowingly waive his rights against his own interests.

In a similar manner, there is a criminal lawyer or prosecutor who is responsible for bringing a case against an accused person in a criminal trial. The burden of proof initially rests on the prosecutor who must prove that the opposite party is guilty beyond a certain doubt. This is all because a particular criminal offender is always taken to be innocent unless proven guilty by the court of law. So, in brief, the job duties of a criminal lawyer also include meeting the clients, discussing the case with them, examining the complainants or witnesses, interacting with the public prosecutor or district attorney and the police team, researching the case law & appearing in the court of law on the client’s behalf.

criminal defence

Conclusion:

A criminal lawyer has a lot of responsibilities and plays an integral role in protecting the rights of their clients in a wide number of criminal cases. One should always preferably choose a qualified criminal lawyer with a proven track record.

6 Things About Criminal Law Everyone Needs to Know – Guest Post

   

Criminal Law

Yes, you’re a law-abiding citizen. Yes, you’re well aware of the actions that can get you into trouble with the police. Yes, you know you shouldn’t drink and drive, steal, cheat anyone, and pay your taxes on time. Even though you do steer clear of any wrongdoing, leave alone committing a crime, you can unwittingly get involved in a criminal charge without having done anything wrong. The charges can be dropped later if there’s no proof and the entire situation is an error.

However, the incident will remain on your permanent record and affect your future unless you get your felony expunged. Here’s some added information about criminal law that every citizen should know. Just in case you or a friend or family member is subjected to the legal justice system.

You Must Never Resist Arrest or Misbehave with a Law Officer

If a law enforcement officer ever stops you, never resist arrest or misbehave even if you’re absolutely certain you did not do anything wrong. Follow all the instructions the officer gives you and answer all questions as asked. Provide identification and vehicle registration papers on demand. Remember to be respectful and agreeable even if you’re taken to the station and processed.

You May Want to Refuse to Take the Field Sobriety Test

If you’re stopped on suspicion of drinking and driving or DUI charges, you have the right to refuse to take the balance test. However, in many states, on receiving a driver’s license, it is inferred consent that you’ll take a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) test whenever asked. Refusing to take one means that you stand to lose your driving privileges for up to 12 months. But, if the test registers a minimum of 0.8%, you could face even more serious consequences. Without the test results, the prosecutor will have to rely on other evidence to prove your guilt. Incidentally, most field sobriety or balance tests are designed to result in failure.

You Should Invoke Your Right to Remain Silent

The law entitles citizens to the right to remain silent. When facing arrest, do not answer questions or give out any information that can incriminate you or be used as evidence against you. You may only give out your name and identification, and then, request that you’re allowed to contact a lawyer. Even if the officers seem friendly and genuinely concerned about resolving the matter, waiting for a lawyer is advisable. An attorney will inquire into the exact nature of the charges against you and offer advice on what to do next. Most importantly, never try to explain your way out of a sticky situation and certainly not in court. Always rely on an experienced attorney to present arguments on your behalf.

You Need Not Permit Law Enforcement to Search Your Premises

You have the right to refuse law enforcement officers to search your house without a court order. You’ll shut the door and contact a lawyer immediately for directions on what to do next. If they do have a warrant, you must fully cooperate with them and offer whatever information they need.

You Should be Cautious About Social Media Postings

Before posting images and accounts of your activities on social media, you might want to consider if they can be used as evidence against you. Any activity and proof of location can be determined with the help of tools like time and date stamps, and IP addresses, to name a few. Innocent acts can be targeted in any courtrooms, from municipal to common courts.

Dismissed Charges May Not End of the Matter

Don’t assume that dismissed charges are the end of the issue. Criminal charges become a part of your permanent record. Any person conducting a background check can learn about the incident in your past. This can become a problem when you apply for a job or college admission, or wish to rent a home or get a mortgage. Several jobs may be denied to you because of the black mark. Further, your chances of adopting a child or getting custody of your kids can also be impacted.

No citizen intends to commit a crime, but if you do get involved in a brush with the law, here’s what you should know.

Best Answers To Your Criminal Defense FAQS- Guest Post

   

A run in with the criminal justice system is easily one of the most stressful situations you can find yourself in. Regardless of the reason for the arrest and the circumstances surrounding your case, you will need all the help you can get if you want to achieve the best possible outcome.

It’s never a good idea for the accused to represent himself in court. Aside from the obvious reasons (i.e., lack of knowledge, skill, resources, etc.), the prosecution is known to seek for the severest possible penalties for criminal cases. Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney can help you obtain a lighter charge, if not eliminate your criminal charges altogether.

The criminal justice system in the United States can move swiftly, which is why you need to find a lawyer as soon as possible — ideally, immediately after your arrest. This is a crucial step if you want to protect your rights and fight the charges against you. Also, never disclose details about the incident to anyone, except for your lawyer. You have the right to refuse to answer any questions the police ask you. Anything you say can potentially be used against you in court.

If you can’t afford to hire your own attorney, the court will assign you a public defender. Financial advantages aside, however, going with a court-appointed attorney may not be the best choice. Public defenders often juggle hundreds of cases at a time, which means they may not be able to give your case the time and attention it deserves. You need a reliable attorney, someone who can put in the requisite time and effort, to increase your chances of getting a favorable result.

Are you or your loved one facing criminal charges? Then you probably have thousands of questions waiting to be answered.

We know that being well-informed is important to your peace of mind, so we’ve answered some of the most frequently-asked questions about criminal defense in the infographic below.

 

 

What Happens When A Felon Is Caught With A Gun In New Orleans – Guest Post

   

gun crime lawyer

What Happens When A Felon Is Caught With A Gun In New Orleans

In Louisiana, a felon in possession of a firearm is charged with a felony offense that carries up to 15 years in prison. In New Orleans, the District Attorney’s Office prosecutes these cases aggressively and will typically offer plea bargains—such as five years probation—to reduce the sentence.

Felon in possession of a gun is one of the most serious crimes you can commit. If you are caught with a gun, it will be nearly impossible to avoid jail time, even if the weapon was not used or brandished. The penalties for this crime range from probation up to life imprisonment depending on your criminal history and other factors. Some people believe that many ex-convicts are innocent but are too scared to fight their case because they know what might happen if they lose.

In this article, we will go into more detail about what happens when a felon is caught with a gun in New Orleans.

The Cleansing Period

The provisions of this Section prohibit the possession and carrying of concealed weapons by felons who have not been convicted for 10 years after completing their sentence. However, these restrictions do not apply to those individuals that were granted an interim release from prison or mental institution.

This means that if you were convicted of a crime and served your time less than ten years ago, you’re committing a felony by even possessing a firearm in New Orleans.

Penalties

Louisiana is known for its hard and fast laws on possession of illegal drugs, as well as illegal firearms. The punishment for violating the provisions of this Section shall be imprisonment at hard labor for not less than 5 nor more than 20 years without benefit of probation, parole, or suspended sentence and an extremely high fine.

is found guilty of attempting to violate the provisions of this Section shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not more than 7 1/2 years and fined not less than $500.00 nor more than 2,500 dollars

An individual can receive sentences ranging from fines up to imprisonment depending on the accusation. This crime is a felony.

Further Guidance

It is unlawful for any person who has been convicted of a felony to possess a firearm in New Orleans. Convicted felons are not allowed to possess dangerous instrumentalities like knives, bombs, or guns without express written permission from the government. Failure to abide by the law comes with serious consequences. If you are a previously convicted felon and you are convicted of gun possession, you are already working with a strike against you. It is vital to do what you can to protect your rights.

Should you find yourself in a gun-related charge in New Orleans, your first and most important priority should be to secure legal counsel. It is vital to hire an attorney that specializes in this type of criminal law to protect and advise you of your rights. This is not a situation that you can handle on your own and we urge you to seek a lawyer with the experience and education necessary to defend you.

The Take-Away

When you are facing criminal charges, it is always best to consult an attorney that specializes in criminal law. Only an experienced attorney can properly assist you with any criminal or felony charges. In this article, we have provided an overview of what happens when a felon is caught with a gun in New Orleans.