×
*Please note that a 3% processing fee will be added to credit card payments
Schedule A Consultation

573-821-4013

Menu
Search

When to Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney

Home
/
Blog
/
When to Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney

When to Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney

A criminal charge is nothing to take lightly. Every person is constitutionally entitled to an attorney upon arrest. But deciding if you need an attorney isn’t always clear, especially if you’ve been charged for the first time or if you think that you’re innocent. Regardless of the charges, you need a criminal defense lawyer to achieve the right outcome. If you’re ready to talk to a legal advocate about your case, call Scott Hamblin today.

The Importance of a Skilled Criminal Defense Attorney

Many people hesitate to hire a lawyer because of the expenses. Some believe it’s more cost-effective to work with a representative assigned by the court. However, hiring a skilled attorney is worth the cost since doing so increases your chances of receiving a favorable outcome. 

An attorney defends you immediately following the arrest and through the trial, sentencing process and beyond. We’re familiar with the court system and how to handle your case most effectively and offer support at each step of the process. 

When Is the Right Time to Hire An Attorney?

Ideally, you should call a criminal defense attorney immediately upon your arrest. The criminal justice system may move faster than you expect once the prosecution files charges against you. Hesitating can lead to more severe penalties or even compromise your eligibility for acquittal. 

The court completes a pre-filing investigation in which the prosecution collects evidence to support their charges against you. As your attorney, Scott Hamblin will monitor this process with the intention of defending against any accusations made by the prosecutor. The faster you act, the better prepared you are for the road ahead. 

What Type of Attorney Should You Hire?

Not all attorneys are the same. Every lawyer has a unique experience in different areas of law, and you need a legal professional who is knowledgeable about the specific matter you are facing. For instance, a federal offense requires an attorney who is experienced in representing federal criminal cases. For drug crimes or DWI charges, you should find an attorney who has a history of success with these cases. Scott Hamblin is highly experienced and offers the unwavering support that you need. 

Arraignment

Your hearing takes place on the day of your arraignment. You will plead guilty, not guilty or no contest to the charges. If you plead guilty, you admit to the crimes and will receive a sentencing date. Upon pleading not guilty, you’ll have to attend a pre-trial. You can also choose to join a plea bargain, which may help you achieve a more lenient sentence. This strategy only works for minor charges, however. 

What Information Does Your Defense Lawyer Need?

Inform your attorney of all of the facts related to your case. Doing so helps us build an effective strategy. We can review your case in-depth to find mitigating circumstances to influence how the jury sees the case. While you may feel uncomfortable admitting everything to your attorney and fear judgment, it’s better to tell us everything, so we are both prepared for the hearing. 

Contact An Attorney

If you are facing criminal charges, the best time to hire an attorney is now. Starting your legal defense sooner rather than later helps you prepare for the next steps. Scott Hamblin is ready to assist you. Call our firm today for a case evaluation. 

Share this post :

He’s On Your Side

Scott will keep you up to date on all important developments in your case. When you need to get in touch with him, he will be there to answer your call or return it promptly.

Schedule a Consultation

Attorney

Scott A. Hamblin

Top-Rated Trial Attorney

What Our Clients Say

atry-image
Your Case in
Capable Hands

Contact Us

For accessible and experienced representation, contact attorney Scott Hamblin today.

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.