If you have been charged with a crime in Alexandria, Virginia, it is important to hire a qualified murder defense lawyer to represent you. A professional attorney can help you understand the process and negotiate with the prosecution to obtain the best possible outcome.
Whether you have been accused of a misdemeanor or a felony, it is critical to protect your rights. The consequences of a conviction can be extremely harsh, including jail time, large fines, and loss of driving privileges. Having a qualified defense lawyer will save you from paying expensive legal fees, as well as time and stress. Even if you do not think you are guilty, an experienced Alexandria criminal defense attorney can ensure that your legal rights are protected.
If you are arrested, your first duty is to inform yourself of your legal rights. You are also entitled to remain silent, and your attorney can ensure that you do so. Your criminal lawyer can interview witnesses and obtain their statements. He or she will be able to determine if their testimony is useful and can help you adjust your strategy based on the information that you have.
Your lawyer can also negotiate with the prosecutors to get you the least severe punishment possible. Many Alexandria criminal attorneys know which prosecutors and judges prefer certain plea deals and can work to get you the deal that you want. They can also help you avoid self-incrimination and make it clear that you do not want to be interviewed.
After your arrest, you may face a Preliminary Hearing. This is a hearing where the prosecution will try to prove probable cause to prosecute you. It is a low-standard hearing, and often the government wins. Depending on the circumstances of your case, a bond hearing may be held in General District Court.
As a result of a DUI charge, you can lose your license. Moreover, you may have to pay fines and complete community service. Those charges can also affect your employment and housing options. In addition, your conviction may affect your ability to get a security clearance. For felonies, you could lose your job and have to report the conviction to future employers.
Murder is a particularly tough crime. If you are found guilty, you could be sentenced to jail for the rest of your life. Your family and friends might be affected as well. Moreover, you might need to pay financial penalties to the victims.
If you are a student, you might have difficulty obtaining a college admission. Likewise, a misdemeanor can also affect your career. Although a DUI can have more serious consequences, it is still a crime and is punishable by up to 12 months in jail. Nevertheless, if you are convicted of a misdemeanor, you can expect to receive fines and probation.
If you are a federal prisoner, you are also eligible for a federal criminal defense attorney. An Alexandria attorney can help you with your federal case.