Albany Criminal Lawyers
An Albany criminal lawyer is someone who represents a person who is facing a criminal charge. They can represent clients who have both state and federal charges. Every case is different, so the specific job duties of a criminal lawyer can vary greatly. However, the job duties may include the following.
- Getting in touch with people via emails, video calls and phone calls
- Reading documents
- Coming up with a defense strategy
- Taking note about the case
How Is Criminal Law Different From Civil Law?
Before you hire a criminal attorney, it is important to take note of the fact that criminal law is different from civil law. If you have a civil case, then the plaintiff will have to be able to prove that you violated a civil law. The plaintiff will be another person or party.
A criminal case is filed when you break a criminal law. The plaintiff in a criminal case will be the state or federal government. Criminal cases are punished more harshly than civil ones are. They may also require a jury trial.
Differences Between Federal And State Crimes
Most criminal cases will be tried in a state court. However, if you violate a law that was passed by congress or the constitution is violated, then your case may go to federal court. Criminal attorneys handle cases in both state and federal court.
What Is The Difference Between a Misdemeanor And Felony?
A misdemeanor is a less serious crime. If you are charged with a misdemeanor, then you probably won’t spend more than a year in jail. You may be charged a fine. A felony can land you in jail for several years. Nonviolent crimes, such as shoplifting, are examples of a misdemeanor. Arson, robbery and murder are examples of crimes that will be charged as felonies.
Why You should Hire a Criminal Attorney for Your Case
If you are facing criminal charges, then the best thing that you can do in order to help your case is to hire a criminal defense attorney. You may think that your case is hopeless. However, a criminal attorney has likely handled cases that are a lot like yours. Your attorney cannot make any specific guarantees. However, they will try their best to make sure that your case gets the best outcome possible.
Your lawyer will conduct an investigation of your case. They will make sure that all of the proper policies and procedures are followed. They can also gather evidence that will help you get off the hook. If the prosecutors do not have enough evidence to prove that you committed the crime that you were accused of, then the charges will likely be dropped.
It can be hard for you to decide whether you should plead guilty or not. Your attorney can tell you if that is a good option. If the best option is for you to plead guilty, then your attorney can work out a plea deal with the prosecutor.
Any criminal charge that you have can carry hefty penalties. However, if you have an attorney, then the penalties will likely be a lot less harsh. Even if you are found guilty of the crime that you have been accused of, you can still possibly get a lighter sentence. For example, you are facing a year in prison due to drug charges. Your attorney can possibly get the time reduced to six months.
It is important to note that prison time is not the only possible punishment that you are facing. A criminal charge can go on your permanent record. This means that it may be impossible for you to obtain a professional license or a job. It can also stop you from continuing your education.
An Albany criminal lawyer can help you keep your record clean. If you already have something on your record, then your attorney can help you get it removed.
Furthermore, your lawyer will represent you in court. They will speak on your behalf and prevent you from saying anything that can be used to incriminate you. The attorney is committed to helping you protect your future.
Defense Strategies That Can Be Used
The specific defense strategy that an attorney uses will depend on the specific case. However, they may use one of the following strategies.
- Proving that the incident could not have happened the way that the prosecutor said it happened
- Arguing that the person was coerced into committing a criminal act
- Using an alibi to prove that it was impossible for a person to be at the scene of the crime during that specific time.
- Arguing that the charges should be dropped because the Statute of Limitations has expired