A Few Myths Concerning Criminal Cases

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Being unfortunate enough to be arrested and criminally charged can be a frightening experience for you to go through. Due to the very serious consequences that can result from these proceedings, it is critical for you to be as knowledgeable as possible. However, it can be common for those facing criminal charges to be fairly uninformed about this process. As a result, these individuals may benefit from having a few of the more commonly held myths about criminal proceedings dispelled.

Myth: The Court Will Appoint An Attorney For Anyone That Requests It

It is no secret that defending yourself against criminal charges will likely require the services of an experienced attorney. However, there are many people that may not want to have to pay for these services. While it is true that the court will appoint an attorney for those that are unable to afford it, there is a common misconception that this anyone that requests a court-appointed attorney will be given one.

In order to qualify for this type of service, you will need to meet the numerous requirements that the court may set. Often, these requirements relate to the defendant's income and ability to pay. As a result, you will likely need to submit proof of your income to the court.

Myth: You Must Be Convicted Of A Crime To Have An Arrest Or Criminal Court Record

There is another common belief among some people that a record of the arrest and proceedings will only be made if a conviction results from the charge. However, this is not true as the arrest and court filings will be present regardless of whether the charge resulted in an actual conviction.

For those that do not want this blemish tarnishing their records, it should be noted that it may be possible to have an expungement of these records if your trial did not result in a conviction. However, the rules and regulations regarding expungements can vary from one state to another, and you will need to consult with an attorney to see what requirements you will need to meet.

Myth: You Should Always Accept A Plea Bargain

It can be common for the prosecutor to offer a plea bargain to the defendant. This is designed to help reduce the caseload of the courts while minimizing trial costs. However, you should be aware that it may not always be wise to accept a plea bargain. The decision as to whether or not you should accept this type of deal can be difficult to make without experienced legal guidance as it will largely depend on the strength of the case against you as well as your possible defenses. For this reason, you should always consult with an attorney before accepting a plea deal. To find out more, speak with someone like Dunnigan & Messier P.C.


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