Criminal charges can be terrifying, especially when dealing with the possible consequences of jail time, probation and a criminal record. If criminal charges were the result of self defense, your lawyer may recommend using self defense as a way of defending your case. Facing criminal charges as a result may seem unfair, especially when in the process of protecting yourself. Should you find yourself in a situation where you have been charged with a crime, contacting a criminal defense lawyer will be a way of putting your best foot forward. Questions are one of the first things you will be facing. A criminal defense lawyer can work with you to answer the many questions you may be plagued by.
What is self defense?
In some cases, a person may find themselves in a situation where they need to protect themselves from harm. Should a person find themselves accused of a violent crime, self defense may be an appropriate legal defense when involved in the court process. If you were charged with a crime that was the result of self defense, your criminal case may not have been as straightforward as you may have originally thought. Allowing a criminal defense lawyer to take the lead can play an essential role in assisting you with the legal process.
Is it okay to speak with law enforcement even if I do not believe that I was at fault?
Even if you were protecting yourself, it’s in your best interest to contact a criminal defense lawyer. The last thing you want is to do or say something that could be damaging to your defense. Be aware that law enforcement may ask you questions that despite your best efforts could only make matters worse. Taking the time to slow things down by asking to speak with a lawyer before speaking with law enforcement can help ensure that your rights are protected.
What are situations that would allow form self defense in a criminal case?
There are two types of defenses that may be argued in such situations self defense and the defense of others. Reasonable force is key. While resorting to violence is never ideal, when arguing self defense a lawyer will argue that reasonable force was used. If a person was facing an imminent threat, it may be reasonable for them to defend themselves. Another common reason for self defense is when a person has the reasonable fear to believe that they will be harmed.
When searching for an experienced criminal defense lawyer, what should I look for?
Criminal charges call for the help of a criminal defense lawyer. No person should face the criminal system without legal representation. While it may be possible to obtain a public defender for your case, retaining a criminal defense lawyer can give you peace of mind that your case is in the very best of hands. Here are some things to look for in a criminal defense lawyer:
- A criminal defense lawyer with experience
- A lawyer with a good reputation
- A lawyer you feel like you can work with
- A lawyer who is responsive to your needs
- A lawyer who can help you understand the process
A criminal defense lawyer can play a key role in helping you to simplify the process and having a clear idea of how to move forward with a situation that was an act of self defense. Dealing with criminal charges is an overwhelming experience, especially when facing the possibility of legal consequences if convicted. For more information, contact a criminal lawyer in Civic Center San Francisco, CA about your self defense case.
Thanks to Hallinan Law Firm for their insight into criminal defense and arguing self defense.