Should A Lawyer Be Hired For An Arraignment?

Legally speaking, hiring an attorney to represent you during your arraignment isn’t entirely necessary, and, instead, some people choose to use a public defender. However, hiring a professional who takes the time to understand your case and do their due diligence on your behalf is strongly recommended. Attorneys advise clients on how to dress and behave before a judge. By professionally presenting yourself, you’ll be more likely to experience positive results. An attorney can also remind you of court dates so that you do not miss your hearing or show up late. Either of these scenarios will drastically reduce your odds of getting an outcome that leans in your favor, which is another reason why it is beneficial to have legal counsel on your side. Here are a few reasons why you shouldn’t go to court without an attorney from the Morales Law Firm arguing on your behalf.

Strategy & Argumentation

At your arraignment, the court will require you to make a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. The one you choose will seriously impact your situation. Although you may believe that your innocence can be proven during a trial, pleading not guilty could result in delayed court hearings. An attorney with criminal justice or criminal defense experience can help you decide which strategy is most agreeable. Important matters, such as the amount of your bail, will be determined during your arraignment. Lawyers know how to argue with judges that yours should be lower. Alternatively, a judge might weigh the possibility of letting you out on your own recognizance. You have the capability of making these arguments yourself, but you do not have the same knowledge or experience as an attorney. That gulf of wisdom can mean the difference between freedom and incarceration.

Challenges & Motions

Maybe there is a question surrounding the legality of your arrest, or perhaps you were unlawfully detained. These are situations where a capable attorney might be able to get your case dismissed. Maybe there’s a question regarding whether you were, in fact, the individual who committed a crime. A criminal defense attorney can leverage these sorts of technicalities to your benefit. By presenting evidence of these possibilities to a judge, your attorney can request a probable cause hearing that will buy you valuable time. If you have other motions pending, your attorney will know how to address them in a court of law. One example is a request for a restraining order relating to a charge of domestic violence. Criminal justice lawyers are experts at making motions for the dismissal of these orders. 

Getting The Help You Deserve

You have a Constitutional right to an attorney by your side at your arraignment. Not having one could put you in a disadvantageous position. Do yourself a favor by hiring a criminal defense attorney in San Francisco, CA from the Morales Law Firm to fight for you when facing criminal charges. No one should have to fight charges alone.