Why The Services Of A Criminal Defense Attorney In Sioux City Iowa Are Crucial When Arrested

By Mattie MacDonald


Thousands of people are arrested each year. Many of those arrested are not gangsters, drug dealers or any of the criminal types that often form the mainstay of crime novels and television series. Many ordinary people with careers also fall foul of the law. They drive whilst under the influence, they fail to pay child maintenance or they file erroneous tax returns. When arrested, however, the first priority is to hire the services of a criminal defense attorney in Sioux City Iowa.

Every accused have basic rights that are ensconced in the constitution. When arrested, many accused feel intimidated and scared. In many cases they feel that they should defend themselves or at least explain things. Experts agree that the best course of action is to exercise the right to remain silent and to refrain from making any type of statement. Accused should only make a statement once they have been advised by a lawyer.

Once appointed the lawyer will immediately try to arrange bail. In many cases this can be accomplished very soon after the arrest. The accused will be expected to post bail before he is allowed to go free. The bail amount must be paid in cash. If the accused cannot raise the required amount the lawyer will be able to arrange for the services of a bail bondsman.

When released on bail the accused will have to comply with strict conditions. The lawyer will explain just how important it is to keep to those conditions. The accused may not contact any witness and he may not interfere with the case. In some cases he will be required to surrender his passport and report to the authorities on a regular basis. Failure to adhere to the bail conditions can cause the bail to be withdrawn.

Most defense lawyers can expedite a case by attempting to achieve a plea bargain. In such cases the lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor. An agreement in terms of which the accused will plead guilty to certain charges in exchange for a lesser sentence is made. This agreement is presented to the judge in chambers. If the judge agrees the plea bargain is made an order of court.

One of the biggest headaches faced by defense attorneys is clients that lie to them. This is a very big mistake. The lawyer cannot represent his client properly if he is not in possession of all the facts. When clients lie to their lawyers they harm their own chances. The lawyer may even refuse to continue with the case.

Legal fees can be extremely high, especially if the case goes to court. It is important to discuss the matter of fees with the lawyer from the word go. It is also advisable to consider legal insurance. This is not possible, however, if charges have already been laid. Legal insurance should be seen in the same light as medical insurance.

It is vital to obtain legal representation when facing charges or even when just being suspected of a crime. The legal system is complex and no layman can hope to defend himself in open court. A lawyer can make sure that his client is protected in terms of his rights and he can do much to make sure that the matter is finalized quickly and efficiently.




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