Being arrested for a crime is very scary, whether you’re guilty of the crime or not. If you are arrested, your one phone call should be to a Daytona Beach criminal attorney. There are a few things an attorney can do that you can’t do yourself.

The Bail Hearing

You’ll be held in jail until your bail hearing after an arrest. At the hearing, the judge will consider the severity of the crime you’re being accused of and your criminal history when determining what you’ll need to pay before you can be released on bail.

If you have a criminal attorney, they will do the talking and will try to get the judge to order the lowest bail possible.

Plea Bargains

According to the Bureau of Justice Assistance, 90 to 95 percent of criminal cases are resolved through a plea bargain. The prosecutor will offer less probation or jail time if you agree to plead guilty or NOLO.

A criminal attorney can speak to the prosecutor on your behalf about a plea bargain and will let you know if it’s best to take the deal or take the case to court.

Case Preparation and Court Representation

If the prosecutor isn’t willing to make a deal, or if the deal isn’t in your best interest, you’ll need a criminal attorney working for you. According to Criminal Defense Lawyer by NOLO, a criminal attorney will research the facts and investigate the case against you to prepare the strongest case possible. Your attorney will have access to investigators who will try to find flaws in the case to help prove your innocence. There is an old adage that says “a person who represents themselves has a fool for a client”. This is true, because if you try to represent yourself and you don’t have a law degree, there’s a good chance you’ll be found guilty. Criminal attorneys understand the laws and can provide an effective defense.

If you are arrested for a crime, it’s best to have a Daytona criminal attorney working for you right after your arrest.