Hiring a Missouri misdemeanor lawyer is a good decision if you face charges and possible punishments. This can be a stressful time where you worry about the consequences and your loved ones. An attorney will help to ensure you get a fair trial and that everyone in the case respects and upholds your rights. At the outset, you should meet with your attorney for a consultation. This discussion has many benefits and can start your case off on a positive note.
Misdemeanors are lesser offenses than felonies. Though the punishments can be light compared to those of felonies, guilty parties can still face jail time and large fines. The person’s reputation can be at stake, as negative stigmas can follow people who even have misdemeanor charges. Luckily, a misdemeanor attorney can give a client an edge.
A good attorney puts the client’s needs first and will work diligently to get the most positive outcome possible. Attorneys have a deep knowledge of the law and case and courtroom processes. The attorney will know what documents to file and whether the client should plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Legal counsel will represent a defendant and protect the person’s interests.
A misdemeanor lawyer will first want to understand the nature of the legal matter. The attorney will ask the client about the facts of the case, including what the charges are, what occurred, who was involved, and other critical facets of the situation. The attorney will ask several questions to get as many details as possible. It is important for the client to be truthful and open.
Once the misdemeanor lawyer has a good idea of the legal issues, a discussion about the person’s next steps can ensue. The lawyer may advise the client to enter a guilty plea and prepare to face the penalties. Or, the lawyer may recommend pleading not guilty, which will mean a trial will follow. The attorney may advise that the client appears in court with legal counsel.
One of the advantages of having an initial consultation is that it gives the attorney the chance to decide whether they can take the case. The legal matter may be outside the lawyer’s area of practice. Or, there may be a conflict of interest or some other reason why the lawyer would not want to take the case. But this meeting allows both parties to decide whether it makes sense to work together.
A misdemeanor lawyer will be your legal representative and build a defense for you. But first, you should have a consultation to see whether your case has merit. You can know whether you would be comfortable retaining the attorney as well. Most lawyers offer a consultation before taking a case. Call an attorney today to get started.
Call us at (417) 865-2181 for more information from Dean Price Law or to schedule a consultation in our office in Springfield. NOTE: This is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
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