8 Ways Criminal Lawyers Can Save You From Jail Time

You commit a crime when you violate the law – In Canada, the most common crimes include those related to violence, drugs, and property (e.g., burglary, arson, shoplifting). In 2017-2018 data from Statistics Canada, there’s a 62% criminal conviction rate in the country. And if you’re accused of committing a crime, hiring a reputable criminal lawyer can save you from jail time. Here are eight ways how.

They are familiar with country-specific laws and legal systems – When it comes to defending crimes, nothing beats experience — combined with excellent technical knowledge. For instance, if you’re in Canada, it’s important to hire a criminal defense lawyer who knows Canadian laws and legal systems by heart. Being familiar with country-specific rules, regulations, and even legal culture can help your lawyer arrive at the best outcome for your case.

They can present you with the best options for your case – A criminal lawyer knows the ins and outs of the law you’re accused to have violated. And as such, they’ll be able to identify the possible routes that your case may be headed for. This is important in preparing the evidence you need to defend your case. With this, they can also lay down the best game plan and best possible outcome that you’ll aim to achieve.

They can expertly talk to authorities on your behalf – Part of your lawyer’s duty is to represent you before the authorities. If police officers will question you, you have the right not to talk unless you have your lawyer present. And when your lawyer speaks on your behalf, you can guarantee that it’ll be for the protection of your best interest. Apart from giving statements, they will also give you legal advice before signing anything or answering questions.

They have connections – Experienced criminal lawyers know people who work in the justice system — including investigators. They can use such contacts to benefit you (e.g. They can hire experts to help you find evidence that can help you with your case).



They can work with witnesses – Apart from investigators and other experts relevant to your particular case, criminal lawyers are also trained to work with witnesses so you can leverage them and strengthen your case. This also includes making sure that your key witnesses remain safe from various forms of threat.



They have courtroom experience in how to deal with the prosecution – The prosecution is tasked to gather proof and their own witnesses to counter your arguments. If you have a criminal defence lawyer by your side, you’ll have someone who knows how to rebut the prosecution and weaken their arguments. As stated earlier, having courtroom experience is essential for a lawyer to be able to win your case, or at the very least, lower your sentence.

They know how to do plea bargains effectively – Negotiating a plea bargain is a must-have skill for any lawyer who defends people accused of crimes. A plea bargain aims to reduce your sentence — or get you out of some of the charges that you’re facing (if you have multiple ones).

They are objective through and through – A criminal lawyer is honest and is bound by their duty to remain objective while handling your case. They will use what’s stipulated in the law to help you make a strong case and, ultimately, save you from jail time. They will fight for your right and work hard to give you the court decision you deserve.