Criminal Defense Lawyers

Bradford County Criminal Defense

Getting arrested is scary. Even if you’re innocent, dealing with the criminal justice system is overwhelming. Where do you start? Who can you trust? Well, take a deep breath. This article will walk you through the basics of criminal defense in Bradford County, PA.

First things first – know your rights.

The second you’re arrested, you have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you. So keep your mouth shut until your lawyer arrives. You also have the right to an attorney, so demand one immediately. Don’t say a word without your lawyer present. I don’t care how intimidating the cops get, stay strong.

Now, let’s talk bail.

For minor offenses, you’ll likely be released on your own recognizance (ROR) or have to post a small bail amount. But for felonies and violent crimes, we’re talking big bucks. Here’s the thing – you don’t have to pay the full amount. A bail bondsman will post bond for like 10% of the total bail amount. So if your bail is $50,000, you’d pay $5,000 to the bondsman. It’s an expensive get-out-of-jail card, but worth it to sleep in your own bed as your case moves forward.

Once you’re out, it’s time to lawyer up.

Your freedom, finances, and future depend on the criminal defense attorney you choose. Look for someone experienced in Bradford County courts with a proven track record of results. Ask family, friends, and coworkers for referrals. Search online reviews and check credentials. Interview a few lawyers before deciding. Cost is a factor, but don’t choose an attorney purely on price. This is not the time to skimp.

Now for the nitty gritty of building your defense case.

Your lawyer will investigate the charges, meet with prosecutors, file motions to get evidence thrown out, negotiate possible plea deals, subpoena witnesses, and craft trial strategies. It’s a ton of work behind the scenes. You may feel anxious and in the dark at times, but trust the process. Your attorney knows what they’re doing.

The best defense depends on the specifics of your case. But here are some common tactics:

• Attack the credibility of witnesses and evidence. If a key witness seems shady or the police screwed up evidence collection, that creates reasonable doubt.
• Claim self-defense. If you can show you acted in self-defense against an attacker, that’s a justifiable legal defense.
• Blame someone else. An alternative perpetrator defense shifts suspicion away from you. But you need compelling evidence pointing to the other person.
• Challenge the charges as excessive or unfounded. Some charges just don’t fit the circumstances. A good lawyer can get inflated charges reduced or dismissed.
• Admit guilt, but mitigate consequences. Often you’re better off admitting fault and seeking leniency versus contesting everything. This works well for first-time offenders or sympathetic situations.

Now for the moment of truth – trial or take a plea deal?

Most criminal cases (over 90%) end in plea bargains to avoid trial. The prosecution may offer a lighter sentence or reduced charges in exchange for a guilty plea. Talk it over carefully with your attorney before deciding. They’ll advise if the deal seems fair or push for trial if chances look good.

If you do go to trial, brace yourself. It’s draining… emotionally and financially. You’ll sit for days as lawyers present evidence and witnesses to the judge or jury. When it’s over, you’ll either be acquitted or convicted. Sentencing happens later. But with an expert lawyer, you’ve got a fighting chance. Trials are unpredictable – you never know how a jury will rule.

And if you’re convicted, it’s not necessarily over. You can appeal based on legal errors in the court proceedings. Appeals are complex and take ages, but could overturn your conviction. Don’t give up hope.

Whew, that was a lot of info. The moral of the story?

Don’t panic if you’re arrested in Bradford County. Call a trusted criminal defense lawyer and let them handle it. Build a strong case. Know your options. With a good attorney on your side, you can beat the charges or minimize the impact on your life.

Now go out there and stay out of trouble! But if you do slip up, you know who to call. Good luck, and stay strong.