Tag Archives: public defenders pros cons

How to Determine if You Need to Hire a Criminal Attorney or Not

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Were you just arrested for an offense in Indiana, but you are not sure whether to hire or lawyer or not for your case? Are you thinking about opting for a public defender instead of hiring a private criminal attorney? If you aren’t sure if your criminal charges warrant the investment of a private lawyer, you are lucky to be in the right place at the right time. Regardless of how major or minor your recent criminal charges are, it is always recommended to hire a criminal defense lawyer to represent your case.

Continue below to learn why, and how to get started on building a strong and impactful defense against your Indiana criminal charges soon.

Indianapolis IN Criminal Defense Law Firm
Indianapolis IN Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

Private Criminal Defense is Always the Best Option

The types of crimes a person can be charged with is seemingly endless, ranging from minor infractions like traffic tickets and citations, to major crimes like capital offenses. The penalties for these crimes vary in nature as well, and depend on a long list of factors. And the consequences for committing a crime can range from a minor fine to the death sentence.

But regardless of the scope and severity of a defendant’s charges, it is important to take them very seriously. Not only can a guilty plea hand down various penalties, but it can also spoil a person’s reputation and have life-long adverse effects on the quality of their life. For this reason and more, it is vital to hire an experienced criminal attorney if you are currently facing criminal charges. They have the knowledge and resources to build a strong and impactful defense to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms. They can help you pursue the best possible outcome to your case.

What a Criminal Attorney Will Do for You

Even for minor offenses, like traffic tickets, a criminal attorney can help you avoid the maximum fines and penalties associated with your infraction. They might even be able to fight the allegations and dismiss your case, such as a speeding ticket, or even prevent your drivers’ license from being suspended. They know how to find the facts and properly investigate allegations in order to fight your criminal charges. Reducing minor infractions is always wise because it can also protect you against increase insurance rates and more.

If your criminal charges are more serious, it is even more critical to your freedom and your future to retain professional legal counsel. Private legal counselors, unlike public defenders, have the time and the resources to dive into your case and put in the effort and focus it needs to have a successful outcome.

With private criminal defense, you are in better hands than none at all. It can mean the difference between extended jail time and no jail time. It can also increase the chances of reducing Level 6 Felonies to Class A or B misdemeanors. It all depends on who you choose to represent your case. Experience and testimonials are the greatest indications of quality and trust.

Were you convicted of misdemeanor or felony weapons crime? Contact Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 for the best chance at reducing or dismissing your Indianapolis IN criminal charges. Consults are free!

You Might Also Read:

4 Reasons to Fire Your Lawyer and Hire a New One
Should I Waive My Right to a Lawyer if I Know I’ll Be Found Guilty?
What Can a Criminal Lawyer Do That a Public Defender Can’t?

Indianapolis Criminal Defense 317-636-7514
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Is a Public Defender a Good Choice for My Indiana Criminal Case?

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If you were recently arrested for a crime, and now you are considering using a public defender as your legal counsel, it is important for you to know what to expect if you choose a court-ordered attorney. Continue reading to learn what a public defender is, what they do, and what to expect when being represented by one in Indiana. This information will help you make the right decision for your criminal defense.

Indianapolis Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514
Indianapolis Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

Court-Appointed Attorneys

A public defender is a court-appointed attorney that is paid by the government to represent defendants that are incapable of affording private legal counsel. Generally, they are given to those facing jail time for misdemeanor or felony charges. Although they are fully-qualified lawyers, public defenders often carry a stigma implying otherwise. They have the equivalent training and licenses and extensive courtroom experience that private lawyers do. But this does not mean they should be a “first choice” for someone facing serious criminal charges.

Choosing a Public Defense Lawyer

After an arrest, a court hearing called an arraignment will be scheduled. This is a defendant’s initial hearing in which their criminal charges will be read to them by a judge, and then they will be asked to plead ‘guilty’ or ‘not guilty’ to their charges. For those with private counsel, their attorney will already be present. As for all others, the arraignment hearing is when a defendant will be given the opportunity to accept a public defender.

If a defendant replies yes to a public defender, one will be appointed to them for the duration of the arraignment only, or until they can prove they are indigent. Eligibility requirements for public defense varies from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Some courts may require defendants to provide fee estimates from multiple private law firms, along with proof of financial records, to prove they cannot pay for private representation. While other courts simply take a defendant’s word or allow them to choose regardless of how much they earn.

Why Private Criminal Defense Lawyers are More Effective

Public defenders have a much heavier caseload compared to private lawyers. This means they do not have very little time to spend on each individual case. For this reason, it can be risky working with one. If you are facing criminal charges and possible jail time, you want to invest in an attorney who can dedicate 100 percent of their time and attention building a defense against your charges. They are the professionals who can afford to put time into protecting your rights and preserving your freedoms.

The Right Choice for Private Criminal Defense in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call the Law Office of David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to learn how you can beat your Indiana criminal charges with aggressive defense. Attorney David E. Lewis is your solution to reducing your sentence, and protecting your freedom. Our Indianapolis criminal defense law firm offers free initial consultations, so you do not have to pay anything to simply talk to a lawyer and get advice on how to approach your charges. Call 317-636-7514 to schedule your online, over-the-phone, or in-office appointment, today.

Indianapolis Criminal Defense 317-636-7514
Schedule a Free Consultation Today!

What Will a Public Defender Do?

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If you were recently arrested for a crime, and now you are considering using a public defender as your legal counsel, it is important for you to know what to expect if you choose a court-ordered attorney. Continue reading to learn what a public defender is, what they do, and what to expect when being represented by one.

Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514
Don’t settle for an overloaded public defender. Call 317-636-7514 for Indiana criminal defense.

Court-Appointed Attorneys

A public defender is a court-appointed attorney that is paid by the government to represent defendants that are incapable of affording private legal counsel. Generally, they are given to those facing jail time for misdemeanor or felony charges. Although they are fully-qualified lawyers, public defenders often carry a stigma implying otherwise. They have the equivalent training and licenses and extensive courtroom experience that private lawyers do. But this does not mean they should be a “first choice” for someone facing serious criminal charges.

Choosing a Public Defense Lawyer

After an arrest, a court hearing called an arraignment will be scheduled. This is a defendant’s initial hearing in which their criminal charges will be read to them by a judge, and then they will be asked to plead ‘guilty’ or ‘not guilty’ to their charges. For those with private counsel, their attorney will already be present. As for all others, the arraignment hearing is when a defendant will be given the opportunity to accept a public defender.

If a defendant replies yes to a public defender, one will be appointed to them for the duration of the arraignment only, or until they can prove they are indigent. Eligibility requirements for public defense varies from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Some courts may require defendants to provide fee estimates from multiple private law firms, along with proof of financial records, to prove they cannot pay for private representation. While other courts simply take a defendant’s word or allow them to choose regardless of how much they earn.

Why Private Lawyers are Best

Public defenders have a much heavier caseload compared to private lawyers. This means they do not have very little time to spend on each individual case. For this reason, it can be risky working with one. If you are facing criminal charges and possible jail time, you want to invest in an attorney who can dedicate 100 percent of their time and attention building a defense against your charges. They are the professionals who can afford to put time into protecting your rights and preserving your freedoms.

Questions About Your Indiana Criminal Case?

Call Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your Indiana criminal charges with a seasoned Indianapolis criminal defense attorney you can trust. We work around the clock to ensure your rights are protected and your freedoms are preserved. You can avoid the maximum penalties for your charges with our aggressive legal representation!

Indianapolis Criminal Defense 317-636-7514
Schedule a Free Consultation Today!