A criminal defense lawyer, also known as a criminal lawyer, represents individuals, entities and organizations charged with a crime in state and federal court.
Criminal defense lawyers gather facts, perform legal research, gather evidence and file motions for their clients. They also hire expert testimony when needed and negotiate with prosecutors to potentially plead down their client’s charges.
Public Defenders vs. Private Criminal Attorneys
Criminal defense lawyers can be public defenders or attorneys in private practice. Each has its advantages and disadvantages.
A public defender is a court-appointed attorney who represents indigent defendants. Defendants can hire a public defender if they are under 18 or unable to afford a private attorney. Public defenders know the court personnel and judges well since they spend so much time in court. However, their large workload may reduce attention to your case.
A private attorney manages their own caseloads and often has the time, attention and resources to give you the best representation possible. However, they can be costly. A Minneapolis criminal defense lawyer may charge between $150 to $450 per hour and require a large deposit upfront before taking your case.
Should You Represent Yourself in a Criminal Case?
You may represent yourself in a criminal trial. However, the court expects you to know the rules and laws that apply to your case.
Generally, there is a reason the right to counsel is enshrined in the Constitution. Court rules and laws are often overwhelming if you aren’t familiar with the legal process. That and the possibility of a jail sentence frequently make hiring a lawyer the best option to ensure a favorable outcome.