What is Criminal Law?
Based on the dictionary, criminal law is “the law of crimes and their punishments.” Although it’s not always as simple as that.
While we’ve mentioned a pretty straightforward answer, the more detailed definition of criminal law is “a body of rules and statutes that define conduct prohibited by the government because it threatens and harms public safety and welfare and that establishes punishment to be imposed for the commission of such acts.”
What is a Criminal Attorney?
The more descriptive term for this would be a “criminal defense lawyer,” and this is what Nguyen identifies as.
There are two different kinds of lawyers in criminal law: those that prosecute and those that defend.
A prosecutor works for our government and they will argue that you have violated a particular portion of the Penal Code. Then this violation could result in some form of punishment which will depend based on the severity of the crime.
A defense attorney, on the other hand, can be hired privately or may be appointed to you. Choosing your criminal defense attorney is one of the most important aspects of your case, so it’s vital to choose the one who will defend and believe you no matter what.
Who Needs a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
To put it simply, you would need a criminal lawyer if you are being investigated, accused, charged, or arrested for any kind of criminal offense.
What to Expect If You’re Charged with a Crime?
Most people’s cases are different, but there’s a general concept and procedure that still holds true throughout the entire criminal justice system.
The following is simply a summary:
• Someone might call the police and tell them that you’ve hit or threatened them
• You were pulled over for suspected drunk driving or DWI
• You were pulled over due to a traffic violation where the officer then arrests you for possessing marijuana, drugs, or for unlawfully carrying a weapon
• You are under 21 and have been caught drinking alcohol
• You were accused of theft
After this, the procedure goes like this:
1. The police can either proceed with arresting you or by opening an investigation.
2. You will go through the process of “booking” if you have been arrested.
3. Then you can post bail if you’ve been granted one.
4. You will then proceed with the filing at the DA’s office.
5. Then your case will be presented to the grand jury.
6. Lastly, there will be negotiations and trials.
Always remember that you have the right to remain silent when you’re being accused of a crime. This is immensely helpful.
If you have further questions, please feel free to give our office a call today.
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