Defense Attorney Melbourne, FL

Our firm houses a defense attorney Melbourne, FL residents recommend when facing legal entanglements. When you find yourself charged with a crime, taking the right steps is key if you don’t want to handle your situation properly. It can be easy to panic, but it will not help your situation if you do not take the right actions. You must be careful about the steps you take following a criminal charge. If you do nothing or don’t take the necessary actions to build a strong defense, then you risk making your situation even more precarious. It is still possible to receive beneficial legal help, so don’t give up right away just because you are charged. Criminal charges should never be taken lightly, especially considering that the consequences can be heavy and incredibly impactful for those convicted and their families. This is just one reason to contact a defense attorney from The Law Offices of Arcadier, Biggie & Wood. We are available to not only protect your rights, but our extensive experience in representing those charged with crimes sets us apart from other Florida lawyers. 

A defense attorney will be your strongest advocate if you find yourself in trouble with the law. You don’t have to worry about figuring out how to deal with your charge alone. If you need legal assistance, you can count on a defense attorney who will be committed to protecting your rights. Every person is innocent until proven guilty, and every person deserves to have fair access to a skilled and experienced attorney. Explore your legal options and contact a defense attorney who is ready to fight for you today. 

Defense Attorney Melbourne, FL

•  
• Common Defenses In Criminal Cases
• Reasons to Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney
• Engaging with Social Media Before Your Case Has Been Resolved
• If You’re Thinking About Running
• Melbourne Defense Statistics
• If You Are a Named Defendant in a Lawsuit
• 6 Myths About Criminal Defense Attorneys
• Melbourne Defense Attorney FAQs
• Benefits of Hiring Arcadier, Biggie, & Wood Defense Attorneys in Melbourne, FL
• The Law Offices of Arcadier, Biggie, & Wood Melbourne Defense Attorney
• Melbourne Defense Attorney Google Review
• Defense Attorney Melbourne, FL Infographic

Common Defenses In Criminal Cases

The Defendant Did not Understand the Significance of the Criminal Actions because of:

• Insanity
• Intoxication
• Mistake of law or fact

The Defendant Was Justified in His or Her Actions

• Self-defense (or defense of another)
• Duress (threats, violence, constraints, or other action brought to bear on someone to do something against their will or better judgment.)
• Necessity

No Crime Actually Occurred

• Consent
• Abandonment or withdrawal
• Entrapment

When facing charges that imply you allegedly committed a crime, it truly is in your best interest to retain a skilled and experienced defense attorney who is fluent in the laws and courts in the state in which the alleged crime occurred. A defense attorney will help you get through the process with confidence in knowing that all viable paths of legal action have been explored prior to presenting your case in court. Florida residents should contact a Melbourne, Florida defense attorney from Law Offices of Arcadier, Biggie & Wood to request a consultation and immediately begin an exploration of the various legal options available to them.

The Impact of a Criminal Conviction

If you have been charged with a crime, the consequences can be severe if convicted. Even if you are charged with a misdemeanor, it can still have a tremendous impact on your life. While the court will hand down penalties that can forever impact a person’s life sometimes, even after time has been served and fines are paid, there can also be other long-term, adverse outcomes. Don’t assume that a conviction for a small offense will result in a lenient sentence or consequences that won’t affect you in significant ways. Even if you are convicted for a minor offense, you may experience negative consequences that can impact you financially or limit your ability to move around. It can strain your relationships with family and friends. Any kind of criminal conviction can result in consequences that you don’t always anticipate. 

After serving jail time, you may have trouble getting jobs you want and you could face other financial hardships. There could be restrictions put in place regarding who you are allowed to see and how you spend your time. The consequences of a conviction can affect you long after the incident. While penalties can certainly range depending upon the crime, here are some possible consequences of a criminal conviction:

• Jail Time
• Lengthy Prison Sentence
• Probation
• Community Service
• Time Away from Family
• Legal Fees
• Fines
• Loss of Civil Rights
• Difficulty Obtaining Employment
• Impacted Relationships
• Difficulty Being Approved for Housing Applications

Life after serving jail time could be much different than before your conviction. You may struggle to stay financially stable or have a large amount of debt due to legal fees. There will be a lot of changes that you have to adjust to. For legal guidance, if you are charged with a crime, act quickly and set up a consultation with a top defense attorney. 

You may be going through many emotions as you figure out how to deal with your legal dilemma. The good news is that you still have options. People facing a criminal charge have access to legal help. As long as you know to take the right steps that are most beneficial to your case, you have a chance at obtaining a good outcome. Remember to remain calm and don’t make brash decisions that can negatively harm your case. Speak with a defense attorney as soon as you can to learn about your full legal rights and the next steps you should follow. They will assess your case and provide step-by-step guidance so that you are protected.

After serving time, collateral consequences can follow. However, by hiring a skilled defense attorney, you may be able to minimize the consequences. For example, instead of serving jail time, you may end up paying fines and doing a certain number of hours of community service. Though there are still consequences you must pay, they are less severe. A skilled defense attorney is knowledgeable about how to approach your case and can provide you legal assistance so that you don’t have to face the worst consequences. They can build a strong argument that aims to have your charge modified, or even dropped altogether. A Melbourne, Florida defense attorney that you rely on should be the initial step taken after a criminal charge. With so much riding on the case’s outcome, having a professional to protect your rights will be critical.

Criminal Defense and the Court of Public Opinion

The criminal justice system is based on the presumption of innocence, and all accused individuals are granted the right to an attorney. Unfortunately, the 24/7 availability of information and societal appetite for scandal can complicate your criminal proceedings and put you at a disadvantage before you ever see a courtroom. Adding to the looming threat of conviction, criminal accusations brought into the public sphere can wreak havoc on your career, your family, and your future endeavors. An experienced defense attorney in Melbourne, FL can assist you in preserving not only your rights but your reputation as well.

Sexual Misconduct

Criminal cases involving allegations of sexual misconduct often catch the attention of local and sometimes even national media. Journalists may attempt to obtain a statement from you in response to accusations of inappropriate sexual behavior, sometimes even before you are formally accused, and if you respond your words could have a negative impact on your case and be used against you as the investigation progresses. Obtaining counsel from a defense attorney in Melbourne, FL immediately upon learning of the accuser’s claims will help protect you, and experienced attorneys at the Law Offices of Arcadier, Biggie & Wood are well-qualified to guide you through every stage of the process.

Financial Crimes

Defendants in criminal cases involving financial crimes such as fraud, embezzlement, money laundering, and bribery are sometimes villainized in the press before the facts of the case are even investigated. If you are accused of a crime involving the transfer of money, or even if you simply suspect that you may be accused, a defense attorney in Melbourne, FL can advise you on appropriate measures to take to aid your defense. While criminal prosecution of financial crimes can be emotionally fraught, much of the process involves lengthy reviews of large volumes of paperwork, and defendants are often intimidated by the projected timeframes and costs. From individual matters such as tax fraud to allegations of larger schemes on behalf of a group or a company, attorneys at the Law Offices of Arcadier, Biggie & Wood are prepared to aggressively defend your case in the most cost-effective manner possible.

If your criminal case is likely to make headlines and evoke strong emotions in your community, adhering to the following guidelines will help prevent the court of public opinion from deciding your fate:

• Exercise your right to remain silent
• Hire an attorney immediately
• Agree to cooperate UNDER GUIDANCE OF COUNSEL

Reasons to Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney

Facing a criminal charge can be incredibly stressful as a possible conviction can carry heavy consequences. Some people may believe that they can manage the criminal system independently, without legal counsel; however, depending upon the severity of the crime, this may not be in your best interest. If you have faced legal trouble before or have a complicated history, hiring an attorney is crucial if you want to have the best defense possible. Compared to a defense attorney, the average person’s knowledge of the law and court system is minimal. As you move through your case, there could be obstacles that come up which can impact your argument. Here are some reasons that our services may be essential to ensure the best possible outcome for your case:

• Criminal defense lawyers have a vast knowledge of criminal law and local court systems in your area, which can be advantageous to your case. 
• Due to their experience, they are likely to have helped past clients who have faced similar charges or have helped clients with similar backgrounds
• Understands criminal law and can strategize the best defense for your case.
• To give yourself the best opportunity at an outcome in your favor.
• Can negotiate deals with prosecutors. 
• You will have someone on your side who will provide you with their honest opinion on moving forward by providing their objective and professional viewpoint.
• Representing yourself can be overwhelming and may even make matters worse. 
• Public defenders often carry high caseloads and may not be able to dedicate the time needed to your case. 
• For help gathering evidence in support of your case. 

Criminal defense lawyers provide many advantages, and a few other layers of support, including someone who can give regular case updates and even offer emotional support and guidance during an incredibly stressful and challenging time. You are not left to figure out where to begin with your case, or solve every issue that comes up yourself. Navigating such complex legal matters can put you through a lot of stress, and having a defense attorney by your side can make the process more manageable. They can be there at your side during times when you need a morale boost or are feeling particularly stressed about your case development. A lawyer who will be committed to advocating for you will not judge you based on your past or background. Whatever the nature of your case is, a defense lawyer will be objective and assist you throughout the entire process. You can take comfort in knowing that you do not have to go through the experience on your own. To learn more about how a defense attorney can assist you, contact an attorney today.

Accused? Start Planning Your Legal Defense Now

Whether you are facing criminal charges or civil liability, it is important to have an experienced defense attorney to represent your interests. Legal issues are similar to medical or dental problems: if they are not effectively dealt with early on, they tend to get bigger, more complicated and more difficult to resolve.  The law offices of Arcadier, Biggie & Wood have handled hundreds of cases in both criminal and civil law and will guide you through what can be one of the most difficult experiences in life.

Criminal Defense

Whether you’ve been expected to be arrested or it comes out of the blue, those first moments are crucial to your criminal defense. When the arresting officer reads you your rights (failing to Mirandize a suspect has been causing for dismissing a case), take them seriously. Say nothing to anyone until you have spoken with legal counsel. That is your Constitutional right, as is your right to have an attorney represent you. It is true that under the Constitution, law enforcement must appoint a defender for you at no cost, but these public servants are overworked and often underpaid. They may be unable to give your case the full attention it deserves. On the other hand, Arcadier, Biggie & Wood has resources not always available to a public defender’s office, and far fewer criminal cases.

Even if you are guilty, a defense attorney in Melbourne, FL can negotiate with the prosecution to possibly get you a reduced sentence.

Engaging with Social Media Before Your Case Has Been Resolved

If you have already been arrested (and are not simply anticipating that charges may be filed against you at some point), you have been read your Miranda rights. This warning, that “You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law” applies—in a general way, of course—to your activity on social media while your case is pending. Even if you have enabled the strictest possible privacy settings on your social media accounts, the prosecutor assigned to your case can track your social media activity and potentially use it as evidence against you. As a result, it is best to refrain from engaging on social media—even sending direct messages or logging “likes” of things—until your case has been resolved.

If social media engagement is particularly important to you and you don’t feel that you’ll be able to refrain from using it, connect with a Melbourne, FL defense attorney at The Law Offices of Arcadier, Biggie & Wood to learn more about strategies that you should employ at this time so that you don’t unintentionally damage the strength of your defense due to your social media choices.

If You’re Thinking About “Running”

When humans are particularly stressed or are placed in a position of danger, their bodies instinctively employ a “fight, flight, or freeze” response. As the response is instinctual, you can’t really help whether you feel compelled to fight, freeze, or flee in the face of being charged with criminal wrongdoing. However, you can help how you choose to respond to your body’s cues. If you feel tempted to run from the charges against you, sit on your hands and take massive breaths until you calm down long enough to connect with a Melbourne, FL defense attorney at our firm. Do. Not. Run. Running will only make things worse for you and could result in additional charges being added to those already levied against you. Feeling like you want to flee is normal. However, actually fleeing is a crime and is, therefore, not a viable option.

Melbourne Defense Statistics

If you have been charged with criminal wrongdoing or expect that you will face such charges soon, seeking legal guidance proactively will help to ensure that the experienced Florida legal team at Law Offices of Arcadier, Biggie & Wood can build the strongest possible defense on your behalf. According to the Bureau of Justice, 1 in 47 adults are under correctional supervision. Do not wait to seek legal guidance. Connect with a knowledgeable Melbourne, FL defense attorney at our firm immediately so that you can have the strongest possible shot at a conviction-free future. 

If You Are a Named Defendant in a Lawsuit

Although the stakes are not as high in a civil action (meaning you are not at risk for jail or prison time), the rule of “remaining silent” still applies. The plaintiff’s attorney in civil litigation will do everything they can to prove your liability. This includes gleaning your social media posts and interviewing anyone connected with the complaint. Therefore, you should say nothing to anyone except a defense attorney in Melbourne, FL.

One major difference between a criminal case and a civil lawsuit is the standard of proof. If you are accused of a crime, the prosecution must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. However, in a civil action, liability needs only be proven based on a preponderance of the evidence. This can make avoiding liability more difficult, but you can count on a defense attorney in Melbourne, FL to do everything in their power to disprove the plaintiff’s case.

DUI Convictions

A DUI is one of the most common types of criminal charges that individuals face each day, and is one of the most consequential offenses. It can be easy to lose track of how much you drink, and for some people, this can have significant consequences. Some people who drink don’t even realize they have drunk too much and just get in the car. Despite their best judgment, people drink and get behind the wheel. If you are convicted for driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol in the state of Florida, there can be residual effects of that conviction on your driving record. Even a first-time DUI conviction can cause issues. It can result in fines and the loss of your driver’s license. According to the CDC, from 2009-2018, 7573 people died in Florida in alcohol-related motor vehicle accidents alone. Anyone arrested for DUI should contact a defense attorney in Melbourne, FL clients recommend immediately.

In Florida, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08 percent. If you have a BAC of 0.08 or higher, you are considered legally drunk, and an officer will arrest you for drunk driving. If your BAC registers between 0.05 to 0.08 percent, you can still be arrested for DUI if the officer thinks your behavior indicates you are under the influence.

Penalties for DUI convictions in Florida can be harsh:

First DUI Conviction

If a driver’s BAC was between 0.08 and 0.15, they face a fine of between $500 to $1,000 and jail time from at least eight hours up to six months. They also face having their driver’s license revoked for six months to one year, probation up to one year, and mandatory 50 hours of community service. The driver’s vehicle is also impounded for 10 days. While the consequences of a first-time DUI conviction vary, it can still impact your life in several ways and should not be taken lightly.

If the driver’s BAC was higher than 0.15, or they had a minor in the vehicle, they face a fine of between $1,000 to $2,000 and the maximum jail time they face is nine months. As a Melbourne, FL defense attorney can explain, even a first DUI conviction can be extremely expensive, both financially and personally.

Second DUI Conviction

If a driver’s BAC was between 0.08 and 0.15, they face a fine of between $1,000 and $2,000 and jail time up to nine months, however, if it has been less than five years from the first conviction, there is a mandatory 10 days in jail. Drivers also face 180 days to one year of probation and a maximum five-year driver’s license suspension. Their vehicle will also be impounded for up to 30 days and they must complete Florida DUI school. They will also be required to install an ignition interlock device when they are allowed to drive again.

If the driver’s BAC was higher than 0.15, or they had a minor in the vehicle, they face a fine of between $2,000 to $4,000 and the maximum jail time they face is up to one year. The court may grant permission for that time to be served in a substance abuse program.   

Third DUI Conviction

If a driver’s BAC was between 0.08 and 0.15, they face a fine of between $2,000 and $5,000 and jail time up to five years, however, if it has been less than 10 years from the last DUI conviction, there is a mandatory 30 days in jail. A Melbourne, FL defense attorney knows that drivers also face 180 days to one year of probation and loss of license for up to 10 years. Their vehicle will also be impounded for up to 90 days and they must complete Florida DUI multiple offender school. They will also be required to install an ignition interlock device when they are allowed to drive again. Drivers will also have a permanent felony conviction on their record. A conviction also means up to 50 hours of community service or a fee of $10 per hour of service.

Defense Attorney Melbourne, FL Infographic

6 Myths About Criminal Defense Attorneys

The role of a criminal defense attorney is often misunderstood. These are some of the most common myths about criminal defense attornies.

1. Using a Public Defender Is Just As Good As Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney

There are many talented public defenders; however, public defenders are often overloaded with cases and may not have the time to devote to your case that you would like. A defense attorney in Melbourne, FL will be able to invest the time and energy into your defense that it deserves. 

2. All Criminal Defense Attornies Are the Same

No matter what profession you look at, some people in that profession are better at their jobs than others. It is the same with criminal defense attorneys. Skill and experience play a big role in the outcome of cases. Choose a defense attorney in Melbourne, FL who has experience trying cases like yours and a track record of success.

3. Lawyers Are Only Interested in Money

Lawyers want to be paid for their work, just like anyone else, but most lawyers don’t get into the profession for solely financial reasons. The team at The Law Offices of Arcadier, Biggie & Wood is dedicated to protecting your rights and being your strongest advocate. They will work hard to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

4. Criminal Defense Attornies Are Shady Characters

Some people view criminal defense attorneys in a negative light because they see them as trying to help guilty people avoid facing the consequences of their crimes. In reality, criminal defense attorneys are dedicated to ensuring that their clients receive their constitutional right to a fair trial. Without criminal defense attorneys, the judicial system in the United States would not work as intended. 

5. Any Lawyer Can Defend You in Court

The legal system in the United States is complex and while all lawyers know something about criminal law, lawyers, such as the team at The Law Offices of Arcadier, Biggie & Wood, who specialize in criminal defense have more expertise in that particular aspect of the law than lawyers who specialize in contracts or family law or some other specialty. Additionally, they have experience trying criminal cases in court that lawyers who do not handle criminal cases do not have.

6. All Lawyers Give Free Consultations

Many lawyers will evaluate your case for free, but not all do. You should always ask about the price before you meet with an attorney.

Melbourne Defense Attorney FAQs

What does it mean to be a defendant?

When a person goes to trial for allegedly committing a crime, that person is considered to be a defendant. 

What is prosecution?

Prosecution is a process that is initiated by a prosecutor. The prosecutor attempts to establish that the defendant is guilty of the crime “beyond reasonable doubt” in court.

What is defense?

When a defendant faces charges for allegedly committing a crime, they are entitled to present a defense and may do so through a variety of means. 

What does a defense attorney do?

A defense attorney is hired by the defendant to help build and present the defendant’s case in court in an attempt to discredit or poke holes in the prosecutor’s case. This process may involve arguing that another individual committed the crime, or arguing that he or she did not commit the crime but has a legal and reasonable defense for doing so. The defendant may even argue that there was no crime committed in the first place. There are a plethora of criminal defenses that the defendant and their legal counsel may pursue to allow the defendant to avoid punishment, or lessen the punishment. 

What are my rights if I’m stopped by a police officer? 

You should be aware of your legal rights in the event that you are stopped by a police officer. Remember that you have the right to stay silent. You do not have to answer any questions until you have a lawyer present. If a police officer comes to your home and asks to come in for a search, you can request to ask for a search warrant. If you pulled over for a DUI, you have the right to refuse to consent to a field sobriety test. 

Why should I hire a lawyer if I’m charged with a crime?  

Having a lawyer if you are charged with a crime can make your experience much less difficult to go through. There are many benefits to hiring a criminal defense lawyer. They can advise you on what to say to the investigators, and inform you of steps that you can take. Lawyers know what legal strategies may be most helpful for your case. 

What should I say to a police officer? 

Determining what to say to a police officer can be tricky, especially if you are in a panic and are worried about saying the wrong thing. If you are not sure what to say to a police officer, it is better for you to just remain silent. Saying the wrong thing, even with the best intentions, can actually damage your case. Refrain from giving a statement until you speak with a trusted lawyer so that they can advise you on the right way to communicate with law enforcement officials. 

Can I get my charge reduced or dropped? 

If you are charged with a certain crime, whether it’s a misdemeanor or felony, there is a chance that the prosecutor will decide to go with a different charge. Having an experienced criminal defense lawyer can make a big difference in the outcome of your case. With the right legal counsel, the charge against you may be able to get reduced or even dropped. 

Being charged with a crime can cause you to feel a lot of stress and anxiety. For a strong defense, make sure you hire a lawyer like one from the Law Offices of Arcadier, Biggie & Wood who will advocate for you every step of the way. Look to a qualified criminal defense lawyer who has built a record of successfully defending clients from a variety of charges. 

Melbourne Defense Attorney Statistics

According to a study conducted by the Pew Research Center, in one year, there were approximately 80,000 defendants in federal criminal cases. Out of that total, only 2 percent of those cases actually went to trial. Ninety percent of those defendants pled guilty, and the other 8 percent had their cases dismissed.

These statistics stress why it is critical to have a skilled Melbourne defense attorney if you are charged with a crime.

Benefits of Hiring Arcadier, Biggie, & Wood Defense Attorneys in Melbourne, FL

With eight lawyers to serve the people of Melbourne, Florida, you can be assured that you will receive a defense attorney in Melbourne, Florida that is going to be able to help you with your defense. These attorneys are experienced in representing clients in Brevard County, Melbourne, Florida with diverse legal needs, from personal injuries to car accidents, bankruptcies, foreclosures, commercial litigation, business law, sexual harassment, wills, and employment law. 

These lawyers have extensive expertise in about every field of law and are gladly willing to be your defense attorney in Melbourne, FL. If you’ve been charged with a criminal offense, you’re gonna want the best defense attorney in Melbourne, Florida that you can have. In that case, you want the defense attorneys at the law offices of Arcadier, Biggie & Wood, PLLC. 

The justice system is a maze of rules and regulations, and no person without a legal degree is able to navigate the justice system alone. That’s where your defense attorney in Melbourne, FL, comes in. A defense attorney is going to be able to negotiate for you, they have to be able to prove you are innocent. While there is an amendment out there that says that you do not have to hire a lawyer, a defense attorney is going to be your best bet, as it is extremely hard to prove yourself innocent without any kind of legal degree. Even the smallest mistake in your defense can result in spending years in jail or being liable and in charge of paying extremely hefty fines. 

One benefit to hiring a lawyer is that you can leverage her specialized knowledge of the legal system. Because the use of the normal layperson is not going to be able to understand the nature of the charges that are brought against you, let alone the consequences, hiring a criminal defense attorney in Melbourne, Florida is going to be your best and easiest way of tapping into the knowledge that your attorney has.

Lawyers also understand all key players that are involved. Criminal lawyers are going to take cases in particular legal jurisdictions because they understand better how the justices dispensed in the courts of these particular jurisdictions. They have lots of experience dealing with judges in prosecution lawyers and they know how to operate and what the weaknesses of both judges and prosecution lawyers are.

Sometimes the fact that they know these judges and these prosecution lawyers can help them create a defense strategy just for you. After all, they know the weaknesses, what the judge wants to hear, and even what the prosecution is looking for. It’s good to be in your best interest. When picking a defense lawyer, you should ensure that you are prepared to work with them. Not every lawyer is going to be able to get you a bargain plea, and some of them may actually prefer a trial. Trust your lawyer or find the one that you trust.

The Law Offices of Arcadier, Biggie, & Wood Melbourne Defense Attorney

2815 W. New Haven, Suite 304

Melbourne, Florida 32904

Melbourne Defense Attorney Google Review

“Cannot thank Maurice enough for the outstanding and effective service he provided to me. He is professional, attentive, and extremely knowledgeable in his field of practice. Dawn, the office manager, is equally attentive and kind. I can’t give them enough stars. I will be back – HIGHLY recommended!” – Ashly V.

Our Experience Sets Us Apart

A DUI conviction is a serious offense and it can affect a person’s life in many ways. It is much more than a mark on your criminal record. The way you resolve a DUI can mean the difference between a small fine and years of jail time. When you are faced with a DUI, act quickly and obtain legal assistance right away so a lawyer can start building your defense. 

The Law Offices of Arcadier, Biggie, & Wood offer Florida residents nearly 75 years of combined experience. Our eight lawyers each provide focus and expertise in different areas of the law. When facing criminal charges and a possible subsequent conviction, having one of our dedicated lawyers by your side will be one of the best steps you can take toward a resolution in your favor. Please start the process of protecting your rights today by scheduling an appointment with our Melbourne, FL defense attorney.

Criminal Defense Law FAQs

If you or a loved one are in need of legal counsel regarding a criminal offense, it would be in your best interest to contact a defense attorney in Melbourne, FL clients trust to look out for their best interest. 

How do clients feel when accused of criminal activity?

When faced with charges, fines, and potential jail time, individuals may feel trapped and overwhelmed by the legal system, leaving them unsure of how best to proceed. Preparing for trial, knowing what to say, and what not to say to benefit your case, and formulating a plan of action are all assets of hiring a lawyer. Most people, especially those who have never had a run-in with the law, are unaware of how the courtroom, interrogations, evidence gathering, settlement, and plea bargains are supposed to play out. 

What are a client’s rights when arrested?

Understanding the rights each person has is important for those encountering the law, especially criminal charges. For example, upon arrest, a person has the right to remain silent, even when their arresting officer is questioning them. What they say can and will be used against them in a court of law. For this reason, experienced defense attorneys highly recommend that their clients remain silent so as to not accidentally say something incriminating against themselves. Waiting for legal counsel is a wise course of action for anyone whole encounters law enforcement.  

How can defense attorneys help their clients?

A skilled defense attorney may formulate a plan for their clients that would explain their accused criminal behavior. Insanity, intoxication, and fact or law misunderstanding are all examples of how defense attorneys may choose to proceed with their client’s case, presenting it in the most favorable way. It is not a defense attorney’s prerogative to determine whether their client is innocent or guilty. Rather, a good defense attorney advocates on behalf of their client and strives for lessening of their charges and sentencing. On some occasions, a defense attorney may be able to have their client’s charges dropped altogether.

What outcome should clients expect for their criminal charges?

While some cases end in dropped charges, clients should not expect their outcome to result in a similar fashion. No two criminal cases are the same, nor are the jurors’ or judge’s verdicts, that is why it is extremely important to have a defense attorney that understands the ins and outs of the legal process to fight on behalf of their client’s needs. 

Justifying the actions of their clients is also an important aspect of a defense attorney’s job. Sometimes a client’s criminal action was justifiable by means of self-defense, duress, or necessity. 

Why should clients think carefully when hiring defense attorneys?

Great defense attorneys such as those at Law Offices of Arcadier, Biggie & Wood will try their best to persuade a judge and jury of their client’s innocence or lack of involvement in the accused crime. By hiring an experienced, and skilled defense attorney, a client can provide themselves with the best chance they have for their criminal charges, and future. On the other hand, if a client’s defense attorney is inexperienced or lacks the skills needed to sway a prosecution, jury, or judge, the client should consider hiring an attorney better fitted for their case, and legal journey. Contact a defense attorney today for a risk-free consultation.

Client Review

“Cannot thank Maurice enough for the outstanding and effective service he provided to me. He is professional, attentive and extremely knowledgeable in his field of practice. Dawn, the office manager, is equally attentive and kind. I can’t give them enough stars. I will be back – HIGHLY recommended!” Ashley Verrill