A criminal defense lawyer’s role includes protecting their client’s rights and building a defense against criminal allegations. An attorney also explains the justice system to their client so the client knows what to expect after being charged with a crime.

If you have been accused of a crime, you have several options. The three most common options include pleading not guilty and going to trial, pleading guilty of the original charges, or pleading guilty to a lesser charge through a plea agreement. If you are pleading not guilty, your attorney may argue multiple defenses including not guilty, self-defense or defense of others. The defense you choose will be dependent on the details of your case.

You should hire your criminal defense attorney as soon as you learn that you have become a person of interest to the police. This is true even before you have been charged and certainly before you talk to the police. Never allow law enforcement to question you without an attorney present, or you may unintentionally say something that prosecutors can use to incriminate you later on.

A petty misdemeanor is a minor charge that often results in a fine or community service. With a petty misdemeanor, incarceration is not a possibility. A misdemeanor charge is the result of many alleged crimes. It may result in up to 90 day of jail and up to a $1000 fine. If you are facing a gross misdemeanor, you face up to 1 year in jail and up to a $3000 fine. A felony is the most serious criminal charge which means it often comes with the most severe punishment following a conviction including prison and enormous fines.

There is no difference between DUI and DWI in Minnesota. Driving under the influence is classified as a DWI regardless of the circumstances. However, there may be aggravating factors in a DWI that make the charges and possible repercussions more serious.

If you are charged with a crime, or believe you may be charged with a crime, it is imperative that you speak to a criminal defense attorney immediately. An attorney will ensure your rights aren’t violated as you move through the criminal justice system and if you do end up in court due to a criminal charge.

The length of your case will depend on your charges and the circumstances. Your case will almost always last longer if it goes to trial. If you can avoid a trial, you may be able to wrap your case up more quickly.

Once you are charged with a crime, your bail will be set. An experienced criminal defense attorney may have an impact on this amount. This is the amount of money you must put up to be released from jail unless the court allows conditions of release as an alternative. After you post bail or agree to the release conditions, you will be released with notice of a court date you must attend. Until the court date, do not engage in any criminal activity and fulfill the conditions of release. If you have not already, you should contact an attorney right away.

After the defendant has their bail amount set by a judge, you may bail them out using cash or by going through a bail bondsman. The latter will generally charge a 10% fee to provide the money you need to post bail. This is their fee for providing the bond and they will keep this amount at the resolution of the case. If you don’t fulfill the obligations of the bond to the court such as returning for all court dates, you could be liable for the remaining 90%.

Any time the police are trying to question you – during a traffic stop, as a person of interest, or after you are charged with a crime, make it clear that you would like to exercise your right to speak with an attorney. Your lawyer will advise you on whether it is wise for you to speak to law enforcement.

Criminal defense attorneys charge an hourly rate or a flat fee, so the cost of an attorney depends on the circumstances of your case. Because the fee structure depends upon the case, make sure you understand what the agreement covers.

You can expect a good criminal defense lawyer to be communicative and attentive to your legal needs. Your lawyer should take the time to explain the charges you’re facing, how they will be handled by the legal system, and your options for a defense strategy. Experience is also a great asset for any attorney.