Best Criminal Defense Lawyers Memphis, TN Of 2024 – Forbes Advisor – Technologist

A criminal defense lawyer can protect the right of and defend individuals charged with crimes. Whether you’re accused of a minor misdemeanor or a serious felony, an attorney can be your vital ally. They can challenge the evidence against you to get charges reduced or dismissed, build a solid defense strategy and negotiate with prosecutors to achieve a favorable plea bargain.

Being charged with a crime can negatively impact all aspects of your life. A criminal defense attorney can reduce those consequences, protect your rights and walk you through the complex criminal justice system.

Public Defenders vs. Private Criminal Attorneys

Individuals facing criminal charges are generally entitled to legal representation. The court appoints a public defender when the accused cannot afford to hire an attorney. While public defenders are as qualified as private attorneys, they tend to handle larger caseloads, which may limit the time they can dedicate to your case. Private criminal attorneys typically have the resources to investigate your case thoroughly and offer more personalized attention.

According to the Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, anyone facing federal criminal charges has the right to counsel. In Tennessee, you have the right to legal counsel when your liberty is at risk and you face incarceration, including for misdemeanors that could result in jail time.

Should You Represent Yourself In a Criminal Case?

In Tennessee, you are legally allowed to represent yourself in a criminal case. Self-representation can make sense when you’re accused of a low-level misdemeanor, such as a traffic violation. However, attempting to defend yourself can be a mistake if you’re facing serious criminal charges. Criminal cases involve intricate laws, rules of evidence and courtroom procedures that are challenging to navigate without professional help.

For example, you might miss important details that could lead to a harsher sentence or a conviction when an attorney could have achieved reduced charges or even a case dismissal. The higher the stakes, such as potential jail time, the more important it is to hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Even in minor cases, a criminal attorney can help you understand your rights and negotiate reduced charges or penalties.