Many different people need the services of a criminal defense lawyer. The U.S. criminal justice system guarantees legal representation to those accused of a crime. There's a big difference, however, between attorneys assigned by the state and private attorneys, even in large districts. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, 71% of those accused in large state courts with public counsel received jail or prison sentences, while only 54% of those with private attorneys did.

What Cases Could Benefit From a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

Here are a few of the charges a criminal defense lawyer will help with and why we believe you should hire a private attorney rather than a court-appointed attorney.

• Driving Under the Influence: For these common cases, the sentence rests on the level of impairment of the defendant, the number of previous convictions, if any, and whether there were injuries or fatalities to other parties. Sentences can include forfeiture of the defendant's driver's license, probation, and prison time.
• Domestic Violence: These cases involve unlawful violence used or threatened by one spouse or cohabitant against the other. The punishment can vary based on the severity of the crime. Defendants should always be honest with their lawyers to mount the most comprehensive defense.
• Weapons Charges: Illegal weapon possession is a serious charge in itself and is often added to other charges such as using an illegal weapon in the commission of a crime.
• Drug Possession: Drug violations also happen frequently and are common cases in the courts. The charges can range from simple possession to manufacturing and trafficking of controlled substances. The severity of the charges depends on the quantity, type of drug, and whether the defendant possessed, used, produced, or sold the substance.
• Theft: Whether you're facing petty theft or a more severe charge like burglary or vehicle theft, you must seek the help of a criminal defense lawyer. The severity of the potential punishment often depends on the monetary value of the property that was stolen and whether there was violence or a threat of violence to the victim. Besides possible jail time, previous theft convictions can impact future employment prospects and damage one's reputation.

If you're facing criminal charges like these or others, seek the services of a qualified criminal defense lawyer. Don't leave your fate in the hands of a public defender. The Law Office of Vincent Felletter is here to help you with your case. Call today to get started with a consultation.