If I Am Innocent, Why Do I Need a Lawyer?

 Posted on January 31, 2022 in Criminal Defense

It is reasonable to assume that you do not need to hire an attorney if you are not guilty of a crime. However, if you are suspected of engaging in criminal activity or you have been charged with a crime, it is important that you hire an attorney regardless of your innocence.  If you are required to appear in court, it is possible to represent yourself, should you wish to do so. Even though you have every right to self-represent, it is not advised that people facing criminal charges do so.  There are many reasons to hire a lawyer, even if you are not guilty of the charges you are facing. 

Charges Do Not Indicate Guilt 

Being charged with a crime does not mean you are guilty of the crime. It simply means you are suspected of the crime. 

The presumption of innocence is an integral part of the U.S. legal system. Even though innocent people often face criminal charges, they still need to defend themselves against the charges they are facing. 

False Pleas May Arise From Pressure By Law Enforcement 

It is not uncommon to feel pressured by arresting police officers, especially if they ask you a lot of questions. The issue here is that, as the Miranda rights declare, anything you say can and will be held against you.

As such, it is better to say nothing at all and request that you have a lawyer present before you provide law enforcement with any information. Otherwise, you may end up in a situation where you say something that harms your chances of avoiding a conviction for the crime. 

Lawyers Know the Law in a Way That You Do Not 

Whether you have been charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, criminal defense attorneys are equipped with the experience and the skills to defend you against the charges you are facing. A criminal defense lawyer in North Carolina will understand the law in ways that you may not, seeing as they spent years studying the law. 

A professional is going to know how to defend someone against criminal charges, whereas someone who is unfamiliar with the law may not know how to properly build a defense. That is why the best plan of action when facing criminal charges is to hire a professional. 

Contact a Raleigh, NC Criminal Defense Attorney 

At Vasquez Law Firm, PLLC, we understand the complex nature of criminal charges. We believe that there is more than one side to every story, and we are eager to hear yours as we build a defense for you. If you are interested in scheduling a free consultation with a Wake County criminal defense lawyer, call 1-844-YO-PELEO today.

Source: 

https://www.nccourts.gov/help-topics/criminal-law/criminal-cases