If someone is arrested and charged with a crime, it can be extremely confusing and frightening. This is why it is essential to hire a criminal lawyer in Manhattan, KS, to ensure their rights are protected throughout the entire legal process. More information about this can be found here.
The Importance of Seeking Legal Representation
Laws regarding criminal activity are complex. If a person does not fully understand the charges that have been filed against them, as well as their rights, they may face severe consequences. This is even more important if the person has been charged with a felony.
Criminal Lawyers in Manhattan, KS, understand criminal laws and can complete a number of actions that will provide a victim with advantages, even before the actual criminal trial. Some of the specific services offered by a criminal defense lawyer include:
* Reviewing disadvantages and advantages of a guilty plea.
* Analyzing the weaknesses and strengths of a particular case and if they should go to trial.
* Negotiating plea bargains with the prosecuting attorney.
* Arguing for the person to be released on bail.
* Challenging the arrest in situations where an officer has claimed to have probable cause.
When It’s Time to Seek a Lawyer’s Services
In order to understand when the services of a criminal defense attorney are needed, one should have a general understanding of the legal process.
The first step is the investigation, which can be as simple as questioning witnesses and collecting evidence. In some cases, there will not be time to contact an attorney in this stage of the process, since the target of the investigation is often unaware that he or she is a suspect. However, if a person is aware they are the subject of a criminal investigation, they should retain a lawyer’s services to be prepared for the possibility of an arrest.
The next step of the legal process is the actual arrest. After the arrest comes the arraignment. This is when formal charges are presented in court. When this occurs, a person will definitely need to seek legal services by this point, if they have not done so previously. This will ensure there is someone looking out to help them get a better outcome in their situation.
The Oleen Law Firm offers more information about hiring a criminal lawyer, through its website. Gathering information can be beneficial for anyone facing criminal charges.
