Being accused of a crime is overwhelming, whether it’s a minor offense or a serious felony. Understanding legal jargon, collecting evidence, and meeting deadlines can worsen the situation. This is where hiring a criminal defense lawyer becomes necessary.
These are legal professionals with years of experience in representing hundreds of clients. They can protect your rights and prevent small charges from causing life-changing consequences. Working with a criminal defense attorney means fair treatment in court and increased chances of a reduced sentence or fine.
Here is a short guide on five types of cases criminal defense attorneys can help with:
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Drug Crimes
Drug crimes are some of the most common cases handled by criminal defense attorneys. These can range from minor possession charges to severe drug trafficking cases. Types of drug crimes include:
- Possession of a controlled substance, such as cocaine, heroin, or methamphetamine
- Possession of marijuana with intent to distribute
- Manufacturing and cultivation of illegal substances
- Possession of drug paraphernalia (pipes, syringes, and digital scales)
- Drug trafficking
A criminal defense attorney will hear your side of the story and use various strategies to challenge and fight the drug charges. They might argue that the officer didn’t have probable cause to conduct a search or violated the defendant’s rights during the process. Your attorney will also investigate the arrest report and analyze camera footage to identify the strengths and weaknesses of your case.
From the arrest to the arraignment to the trial, a reliable criminal defense attorney will guide you throughout the process. If you choose to take a plea deal, your attorney will negotiate for a drug diversion program to avoid a criminal conviction. They can minimize the consequences of a drug crime, leading to reduced prison time and probation.
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Operating Under the Influence (OUI)
A person charged with Operating Under the Influence (OUI), when they are caught operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or both. OUI entails severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and jail time.
Law enforcement officers use various methods to determine if someone is operating a vehicle under the influence. This includes:
- Blood Alcohol Concentration Test: BAC tests are conducted to determine the level of alcohol or drugs in the driver’s system. A BAC of 0.08% or higher is considered illegal for adults.
- Field Sobriety Tests: These are conducted to analyze a driver’s coordination and balance levels. Common types include Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN), Walk-and-Turn, and One-Leg stand.
- Breathalyzers: A breathalyzer test measures the amount of alcohol in a person’s exhaled breath.
A reliable OUI lawyer will ensure your constitutional rights are upheld throughout the legal process. Moreover, they will challenge the admissibility of evidence including blood test results or breathalyzer, which can be compromised due to special circumstances.
A criminal defense lawyer will negotiate for your best interests if taking a plea deal is the most suitable option. Comparatively, if the case goes to trial, your attorney will prepare a strong defense and cross-examine witnesses.
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White Collar Crimes
White-collar crimes are financially motivated, non-violent crimes committed by individuals or businesses in professional settings. Common types include:
- Fraud
- Embezzlement
- Money laundering
- Insider trading
- Bribery
- Corruption
- Tax evasion
A criminal defense attorney will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your case and familiarize themselves with technical knowledge to represent you. They will also scrutinize financial records and other evidence to find errors.
An experienced criminal defense attorney might argue that the defendant lacked intent, was unaware of the wrongdoing, or was coerced into illegal activities. In many cases, attorneys get their clients reduced sentences or penalties in exchange for cooperation. All of these strategies can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
Working with a criminal defense attorney means confidentiality and protecting your reputation.
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College Crimes
A college crime is a violation of federal, state, or municipal law while on college campuses, including in classrooms, restrooms, dorms, and parking lots. It can be both violent or nonviolent crimes. Common types include:
- Sexual harassment or abuse
- Bullying
- Hazing
- Sexual offenses
- Gun or weapon crimes
- Possession and/ or distribution of drugs
- Underage drinking or drug usage
- Public intoxication
- Cyber crimes
- Fake IDs and fraud
In the U.S., many states including Massachusetts and Florida treat college crimes as serious offenses. The consequences go beyond campus disciplinary action, often leading to hefty fines and jail time. The most dire result of college crimes is a permanent record that can hinder a student’s future education and impact career opportunities.
Many college students make the mistake of representing themselves, believing they can explain their side of the story and avoid penalties. Seeking legal help is necessary, even when you’ve not committed a crime.
A criminal defense attorney might challenge the evidence, calling it weak or circumstantial. Moreover, they might raise concerns about unlawful searches and police misconduct. In many cases, lawyers are able to prove that the defendant wasn’t involved in the crime.
Having strong legal counsel can protect a student’s academic and professional future.
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Internet Crimes
Internet crimes, also known as cybercrimes, are committed using internet connectivity through mobile phones, computers, and online platforms. With the advent of technology, there has been a steady hike in internet crimes. Common types of internet crimes include:
Identity Theft: It involves gaining access to someone’s Social Security number, credit card details, and other information and using them for fraudulent purposes.
Hacking: The process of gaining access to someone’s private accounts or government databases without permission is called hacking.
Online Scams: People often unknowingly get involved in get-rich schemes, such as selling fake products or Ponzi schemes. These have dire legal consequences under the U.S. law.
Cyberstalking and Harassment: Threatening, harassing, or intimidating someone using online platforms comes under cyber threats.
Sexting as Child Pornography: Sexting is the act of sending nude photos or sexually explicit videos via cell phone. When the subject of the photo or video is under the age of 18, federal child pornography laws are applied.
A criminal defense attorney can use numerous strategies to reduce or expunge charges. This can include a lack of sufficient evidence, illegal search, mistaken identity, and lack of intent. Your defense attorney might also work with cybersecurity experts to gain technical knowledge and weaken the prosecutor’s case.
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