Although the United States Constitution says you have legal rights, it often feels like the criminal defense system is stacked against you at every turn.
The prosecution seems like they have limitless budgets and resources that are all aimed at winning a conviction in your case, allowing them to move on to the next defendant. Many prosecutors want you to quickly plead guilty because they have large dockets and want to win the subsequent conviction.
You need a Winston-Salem criminal defense attorney on your side. Contact McMinn, Logan & Gray in Winston-Salem today to schedule a consultation.
Why You Need a Winston-Salem Criminal Defense Lawyer
The criminal justice system can seem bleak for any defendant in this context. It can be if you try to tackle everything on your own. Up against a powerful technique, you may not have much chance to fight the criminal charges against you or obtain the best possible legal outcome.
Although your legal rights are always in effect, you can protect them better when you hire an experienced criminal defense attorney who knows when they are being violated and what you can do to stop it. Don’t put it off, contact our law offices for an initial consultation now.
The Consequences of a Criminal Conviction in Winston-Salem
You have a lot to consider when charged with any crime. If you are convicted of the crime, there are many potential ramifications. License restoration, for example, is an issue that plagues some clients.
Of course, your most immediate concern is your freedom, which can be on the line for an extended period. Beyond that, a criminal conviction will have many other effects on your lifestyle and your family.
Being convicted of certain crimes can affect your:
- Ability to find a job or keep the one you have
- Ability to own a firearm
- Custody case if you have children
- Immigration status
- Security clearance
- Reputation
Whether you are dealing with a federal or state prosecutor, the deck may seem stacked against you from the start. However, your hope comes from hiring an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Then, there is a far better chance that justice can prevail.
Retain a Winston-Salem, NC, Criminal Defense Lawyer Experienced in the Law
From the beginning of your criminal defense case, numerous critical points demand the advice of an experienced Winston-Salem attorney, including:
- Whether bail is set and how much it is
- Providing guidance when law enforcement tries to speak with you and ask you questions that could incriminate you
- Whether to cooperate with law enforcement in the hopes of a lighter sentence
- What to do when you are served with a search warrant
As your case progresses, things will only get more complicated. The prosecution has legal obligations that it needs to follow, including sharing all the evidence it intends to use against you. As you prepare for trial, you must review this evidence and determine whether you can attack the prosecution’s case.
How an Attorney Can Help You Fight the Charges Against You
Criminal cases come down to the evidence. The prosecution must prove every element of its case beyond a reasonable doubt, and they do this through physical evidence and witness testimony.
A big problem in the U.S. today is how evidence is obtained. In seizing and using evidence, prosecutors often violate the defendant’s constitutional rights. During an unauthorized search, a person can end up with damaged property and even personal injury.
The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution prohibits an illegal search or seizure. If you believe that evidence was illegally seized and is being used in your case, you can file a motion to suppress the evidence.
Not only can the prosecutor not use that evidence, but a court would also throw out any evidence that is the “fruit of the poisonous tree.”
First, you must know your legal rights and be ready to stand up when they are being violated, and that is precisely what a tough and experienced criminal defense attorney would do for you.
As a former Assistant District Attorney, I can tell you that legal issues arise long before trial. If you are in the Triad area of North Carolina, call our NC lawyers at McMinn, Logan & Gray.
Your Options in a Winston-Salem Criminal Proceeding
Some defendants may find an opportunity to fight the charges they are facing. Remember, the prosecutor must work to prove their case, and your attorney can weaken their case by casting doubt.
However, other defendants may decide they are better off negotiating a plea deal because they do not want to risk going to trial.
In any criminal defense case, you have two choices as to how to proceed:
- You can take your case to trial and fight the charges against you.
- You can negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecutor for reduced charges or a lower sentence.
There is a wide range of potential outcomes in a criminal case. You need to know the full range of your legal options, so working with a skilled criminal defense lawyer is essential.
Don’t even consider showing up to court without your Winston-Salem, NC lawyer as your criminal defense.
