Do I Need a Lawyer If I Am Pleading Guilty?

 Posted on July 30, 2018 in Criminal Defense

If you have been charged with a federal crime, you may wonder what options you have. You may also have already decided that you wish to plead guilty.

There are many reasons why people choose to plead guilty. Maybe you feel like the evidence paints an open and shut case against you. Maybe you believe that you will get a lesser sentence if you plead guilty and avoid trial. Whatever your reasons, pleading guilty is a choice only you can make, and an attorney can help you in that decision-making process.

Some people believe that one benefit of pleading guilty is that they will not need to retain counsel. This, however, is a misconception, and failing to hire an attorney is likely a mistake.

Here are four ways an Illinois federal criminal attorney can help you in pleading guilty.

Determine if the plea is fair. An attorney will examine the evidence the government has against you and assess if there is enough to find you guilty of the crime. Often the state does not have enough evidence, especially early in the case. It may be possible that they have enough evidence to convict you of a lesser crime, however. In these cases, an attorney can tell you what an appropriate charge to plead guilty to would be. Negotiate a better plea deal. Besides evaluating the strength of the case against you, an attorney may be able to get you a better sentence or punishment. Federal criminal defense attorneys see what other defendants who have pled guilty have received. Ask for a diversion program. It may be possible that your charges are eligible for diversion programs. There are often creative sentencing or punishment options available, but the government or a court must be asked for these options. Advise you on your plea. There are different types of guilty pleas, and you can reserve certain issues as part of your plea. This can make a big difference as to your options on appeal, for example.

Contact a Chicago, IL Criminal Defense Attorney

If you are considering pleading guilty, it is generally worthwhile to speak to an attorney. Even though pleading guilty seems like a simple process, there are numerous considerations and decisions. An attorney will be looking out for you and making sure you get the best possible outcome under the law.

Our skilled Chicago, IL criminal defense lawyer can be reached at 312-629-0669. Call today to schedule your initial consultation.

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