The consequences of a criminal conviction—including possible jail time and having to live with a criminal record—are serious. If you have been arrested or charged with a crime, make sure to consult a criminal defense attorney. An experienced criminal defense lawyer will be able to explain the law that applies to your situation. An attorney who knows the system will be able to offer insight regarding local court procedures and the tendencies of prosecutors and judges.

Criminal Charges. The two primary types of crimes are misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanors carry potential punishment of up to a year in jail in most states. Felony charges usually come with the possibility of a year or more in prison. Both kinds of crimes come with other short-term consequences, like fines, community service, and restitution. Criminal convictions often have long-term ramifications, too—for example, they can jeopardize future employment and housing opportunities. Also, certain kinds of convictions can lead to requirements like having to register as a sex offender.

Steps in the Process. A lawyer can guide you through all steps of the criminal process, including trying to get out of jail after arrest, determining whether a fair plea deal is possible, going to trial, and sentencing. Getting guidance from an experienced criminal defense lawyer is essential to understanding both your rights and your options. Hiring an attorney certainly involves spending money, but in many cases, it’s well worth the investment. And if you can’t afford private counsel, you’re generally entitled to a court-appointed lawyer.

Getting Legal Representation. As you consider whether to hire a given attorney, gather your thoughts and any documentation related to the case. Make a list of questions, and consider asking about issues like the lawyer’s experience with cases like yours, the lawyer’s familiarity with the relevant court system, how often the lawyer goes to trial, who else will work on your case, and the lawyer’s initial impressions of your situation and options.

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