Facing criminal charges is one of the most stressful experiences one can have. The potential consequences, including jail time, can be overwhelming to anyone. However, a skilled criminal defense lawyer may be able to help you avoid going to jail depending on the specifics of your situation. With their experience and knowledge of the law, an Upper Peninsula criminal defense lawyer can offer skilled advice and assistance during your case. Reach out to an attorney today for more information.
How Can a Lawyer Help Me Avoid Going to Jail?
While there is no way to be 100% sure that you can avoid jail time in your criminal case, a skilled lawyer may be able to help in the following ways.
- Advise you on what to say: One of the best ways your lawyer will help you avoid jail is by advising you on what to say, or better yet what not to say. Individuals arrested for crimes often incriminate themselves accidentally when being questioned or when they think no one is around to hear them. Your lawyer can sit by your side anytime law enforcement is speaking with you and advise you on how to respond and when to keep quiet.
- Evaluate the opposing side’s case: A good defense attorney will understand what the prosecution needs to prove in order to secure a guilty verdict. They will assess the case being made against you and can identify weak points or holes that can be exploited.
- Negotiate on your behalf: In many cases, the prosecution does not want to go to trial as much as you do not want to go to jail. Depending on the situation your lawyer can use their experience and knowledge to strike a plea bargain with the prosecutor. This is an agreement where you plead guilty to the charges or lesser charges in exchange for a reduced sentence with lower penalties. This can help you avoid jail time if your lawyer can negotiate the consequences.
- Build a strong defense: Winning the case and securing a not-guilty verdict is the best way to avoid jail time. You and your attorney can work together to gather and organize evidence to cast doubt on your guilt. They can cross-examine witnesses to challenge their credibility and point out flaws in the opposing side’s case.
- Suggest alternatives: If you are found guilty, your lawyer still may be able to help you avoid going to jail by suggesting alternative sentencing options. They may explain that probation, restitution, community service, house arrest, or treatment programs are more reasonable than a term of imprisonment. A court may agree to an alternative depending on your remorse, age, mental state, or other mitigating factors. A skilled attorney will emphasize all of the reasons that you do not deserve to face jail time.
Your criminal defense lawyer can do the above and more in an effort to protect your rights and help you avoid going to jail. Contact an experienced attorney at Berger Law to set up a consultation and discuss your options today.
