Burke County Criminal Defense Lawyer

Burke County Criminal Defense Attorney

Being charged with a crime can be a life-altering event. You likely have worries about what the future will look like and whether you may have to serve time in jail or prison. Contacting a Burke County criminal defense lawyer can help you get your side of the story across.

Criminal charges do not mean that you will be found guilty. Cody Law Firm has helped many clients reduce the penalties their clients are facing. During this difficult period in your life, you need someone in your corner who understands North Carolina’s criminal laws.

Why You Need Cody Law Firm

Cops can misjudge situations when making an arrest, and prosecutors may be more concerned with winning a conviction than serving justice. Although the criminal justice system can seem imposing, criminal defense attorneys have the knowledge and resources to help clients avoid serious penalties. The burden of proving your guilt falls on the state, and the standard for finding someone guilty is proof beyond a reasonable doubt.

At Cody Law Firm, we understand what it takes to have someone’s charges dropped or reduced. We can gather evidence and testimony that calls into question the victim’s version of events. By demonstrating that the evidence being used against you does not prove that you committed a crime beyond a reasonable doubt, we can position you for a favorable outcome to your case.

What Happens During the Criminal Process??

Arrests generally happen one of two ways. In some cases, there may be an ongoing investigation to determine if a crime was committed and who the main suspect is. Cops may spend days or weeks gathering evidence before submitting their findings to the county district attorney. Prosecutors will then review the file to decide whether or not to accept the case.

Criminal charges can also be brought when a police officer witnesses a crime or arrives at the scene of a crime. If there is probable cause that someone committed a crime, they may be arrested on the spot. Following an arrest, defendants are processed in jail and notified of the crimes they are alleged to have committed.

Defendants are then notified of upcoming court hearings. If they have an attorney, their lawyer is notified. While facing charges, the defendant may be required to attend hearings and meetings with bond supervision officers. The defendant’s attorney uses this time to gather evidence to support the client’s innocence. The evidence may support the defendant’s innocence, or it may show that the defendant should be charged with a lower offense.

Cases are often resolved through plea bargaining, where prosecutors and criminal defense attorneys come to an agreement over the terms of settling the case. If prosecutors make a favorable offer, such as probation and no jail time, the defendant may accept the deal. Defendants also have the right to ask for a trial where a judge or jury decides the defendant’s guilt and sentencing.

How Your Attorney Can Help

Having legal representation can make the difference between experiencing the worst-case scenario and favorably resolving your case in a way that allows you to put the ordeal behind you. Lawyers have the knowledge and resources to investigate a case to see if the prosecution’s evidence justifies the criminal charges.

Without legal representation, you may be pressured into accepting an unfavorable plea bargain agreement. Attorneys can also protect you from saying something that is self-incriminating. Criminal defense attorneys understand how to gather evidence that can show that you did not commit a crime.

During the plea bargain process, your lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors so you do not face the worst penalties under the law. Often, this means negotiating a deal that allows you to avoid jail time, depending on the type of crime you are charged with.

FAQs

Q: How Much Does a Criminal Lawyer Cost in North Carolina?

A: Criminal law attorneys either charge a flat rate or charge by the hour. More serious crimes generally require more time on the part of your attorney than less serious offenses. More experienced lawyers generally charge more for their services than less experienced attorneys. While legal fees are one consideration for any defendant, the cost of legal services should be weighed against the cost of being found guilty of a serious crime.

Q: How Do I Find a Good Criminal Defense Lawyer?

A: Finding the right attorney in Burke County, North Carolina, for your case should be your top priority following an arrest. You can start by asking friends and families for referrals. Online reviews can be a good source of feedback from past clients. Look for lawyers who have experience helping clients who were charged with similar crimes to yours. Ask the attorney during your consultation what outcomes past clients have had.

Q: Will My Criminal Case Go to Trial?

A: The vast majority of criminal cases are resolved through plea bargaining, meaning a relatively low percentage of cases go to trial. Defendants have the right to a trial by jury, and your lawyer will be a good source of counsel on whether you should seek a trial or not. If the evidence supports your innocence but prosecutors refuse to drop charges, a trial can offer an important means of resolving your case.

Q: What’s the Most a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Charge?

A: There is no set limit to what a criminal lawyer can charge. Representing clients who are facing criminal charges requires considerable time and resources on the part of attorneys. The longer and more complex your case is, the more your lawyer may charge you as a result.

Schedule Your Burke County Criminal Defense Consultation Today

Hiring an attorney can greatly improve the odds that your charges will be dropped or reduced. If you were recently charged with a crime, you need an attorney you can trust. Cody Law Firm has helped many clients who were facing misdemeanors or felonies.

We can work tirelessly to ensure that your rights are protected and that evidence supporting your innocence is presented in court. To schedule your criminal defense consultation, contact our office today.