The Importance of Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney

A criminal conviction can affect your future. It can prevent you from finding employment, housing or furthering your education. It can also impact your ability to receive government benefits.

It is important to remember that your rights are protected under the Constitution. During any interaction with police, politely and courteously request your attorney present before answering any questions.

Experience

When a criminal case is involved, it is important to hire a Fairfax criminal defense attorney with local knowledge and extensive litigation experience. Local laws differ from state to state, and even the smallest details can affect your case.

Criminal convictions carry harsh fines, jail time and a criminal record that can impact employment, family relationships and Constitutional rights. Choosing the right attorney can protect your rights, reputation and financial future.

The best criminal defense attorneys are known for their dedication to their clients and their track record of success. During your consultation, ask your potential lawyer how many cases like yours they have handled. You can also ask about their experience with different types of crimes and if they have ever written any articles on criminal law. This will help you determine whether they are a good fit for your situation.

Expertise

A good criminal attorney understands the pulse and rhythm of jurors, judges, prosecutors and police, and knows how to redirect them for the benefit of their client. The right lawyer also knows how to take advantage of the mistakes made by law enforcement.

For example, if you’re pulled over for DUI in Virginia, the criminal attorney may advise you not to say anything to the officer, even something as innocent as reaching into your glove compartment to get your insurance and registration information. The reason is that anything you say could be used against you in court, and the officers have a predisposed bias toward people they think are guilty.

A good criminal defense attorney in Fairfax VA will be honest and upfront about their abilities, including how many cases they’ve taken to trial. The number of trials litigated is an important factor to consider because if your case goes to trial, they’ll need to have the skills and ability to go all the way with your prosecution.

Reputation

Many people facing criminal charges are stressed out and desperate to get the case over with as quickly as possible. However, a good Fairfax Criminal Defense Attorney will work to ensure that your rights are protected and that you’re treated fairly. A reputable attorney will also be experienced in handling high profile cases.

A seasoned Fairfax Criminal Defense Attorney can use their local knowledge and extensive litigation experience to mount an effective defense on your behalf. They’ll take the time to review the facts of your case and develop a legal strategy designed to give you the best chance of success in court.

A criminal conviction can have serious consequences, including jail time, steep fines, and damage to your reputation and future opportunities. It’s important to hire a qualified and experienced criminal defense lawyer to help you defend yourself against criminal charges in Fairfax, Virginia. A good criminal defense attorney can make all the difference in your case.

Expungement

Criminal convictions have serious implications for your personal and professional life. Aside from harsh fines and jail time, a criminal record can hinder your employment opportunities, prevent you from finding housing and impact your custodial and marital arrangements. Depending on the type of crime committed, some offenses may have federal implications as well.

The Commonwealth allows adults to obtain an expungement if they meet certain criteria. To be eligible for an expungement, a person must have been acquitted of an offense or found not guilty after a trial. They must also have met all of the conditions for having a charge nolle prosequid or dismissed by the prosecution.

A Fairfax Criminal Defense Attorney should be able to guide you through the process of expunging an arrest or conviction from your record so that prospective employers, landlords and insurance companies can no longer view it. Your lawyer should be familiar with the laws regarding adult and juvenile expungement in Virginia.