If you have a criminal charge against you, it may feel like there is nowhere to turn. Some may feel that they do not have the funds or the know-how to hire an attorney, or they may simply be overwhelmed by the process. However, no matter your circumstance, there are legal professionals who are there for you. If you are incarcerated, you have the right to an attorney, and simply asking for one will ensure that you invoke this right.
Criminal defense law is not a one-size-fits-all science. There are many different levels of criminal charges, with specific attorneys who have studied and are licensed for each type. It is important to understand the different types of defense attorneys in order to get an attorney who will do the best work on the charges you are facing. Each level of attorney should be well equipped with an understanding of the laws and the options that an individual has when faced with charges.
Public Defender. A public defender is a government-paid defense lawyer who works with people who cannot afford to hire an attorney. The U.S. Constitution requires that the government provide representation for anyone who wants a lawyer, regardless of their ability to pay. Public defenders are required to do their due diligence in order to provide a credible defense for defendants. Even if an individual feels that they wish to represent themselves in court, it is still a wise idea to meet with a public defender in order to fully understand the charges that have been issued.
State Defense Attorney. A state defense attorney and federal defense attorneys are very similar, with one main difference: federal defense attorneys handle any case where a crime has been committed against federal United States laws. A state defense lawyer is an attorney that will work to build a defense case when there are state charges issued against a defendant. Individuals may seek out and commission any lawyer who they feel could defend them well. State charges are mostly criminal and civil charges, such as theft and assault, and the violation of speed limit laws, drinking laws, and age limits.
Federal Defense Attorney. A federal law is anything that falls out of the jurisdiction of any state, such as any crime on an Indian reservation, a national park, or an aircraft, terrorism, mail fraud, or any crime that crosses state lines.
Call a professional attorney for more information.