If you have been arrested of a crime, you need to contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Why a criminal defense lawyer? Because with the help of a lawyer, specifically a criminal defense lawyer, your case can be either dismissed, jail time significantly lowered, probation granted, end up paying a fine, or in some cases you may not need to go to court at all.

When searching for a criminal defense lawyer you may find better results by researching through the Internet rather than the phone book. The site you click on should list the firms’ experience, testimonies, and fees if applicable. When you research, remember to choose a lawyer who is located nearby.

If you have very little money, a court will assign you a defense lawyer, but if you have money saved or know someone who will loan you the money, you are always better off hiring a criminal defense lawyer than going with the court appointed one. Still, a court appointed lawyer is better than no lawyer at all.

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The Hollywood-portrayed setting glorifies criminal defense cases. Dynamic lawyers on both sides stand and speak with audacity to convince a stoic jury. A stern judge hammers his mallet, and witnesses blurt out testimonies – or admit guilt – while the stunned crowd gasps at every breath and word spoken. The defendant looks forlorn and teary-eyed while the prosecution sneers with snake eyes and creepy smiles.

Most of Hollywood’s court cases involve murder or other large-scale cases. In real life, the setting might be that dramatic for someone who is facing criminal charges, but an audience might not tune in to see what most criminal cases are about. Charges like misdemeanors, DUIs, assault, theft, drug charges and traffic violations probably won’t bring in the ratings – Jude Judy is an exception.

So, in the real world, what is criminal defense? Who needs a criminal defense lawyer?

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