In Lake County and surrounding counties, the criminal law process has a set format. A skilled criminal defense attorney is completely familiar with the process and can work at every stage of the process to minimize the negative consequences in your criminal case.
Investigation
If you are being investigated for a crime, or you suspect that you may be the subject of an investigation, it’s wise to have a defense attorney at the soonest possible point in time. If you have already been arrested and further investigation is called for, a criminal defense attorney and private investigators can help uncover information that is beneficial to your case.
Charges and Bail
When a person is arrested and booked, the prosecutor makes a decision about what to charge the person with. A defense attorney will work at this time to protect your constitutional rights, including the right to:
- have an attorney present
- remain silent
- be presumed innocent
- have a trial
Posting money or a bond as bail, which acts as a surety for your later appearance in court, is an option at this time. Before bail money or a bond is posted, contact William Margolin a Lake and County Criminal Law attorney to discuss your legal options.
Hearings, Trial, Pleas
A person charged with a crime may be faced with a probable cause hearing or another preliminary hearing. A defense attorney can attempt to get a dismissal or reduction of the criminal charge(s) at such a hearing.
If the case proceeds to trial, a competent and aggressive defense attorney is of paramount importance to the defendant, whether the trial is held before a judge alone or a jury. A defense attorney may also be able to persuade the prosecutor to reduce the charges, possibly in a plea bargain.
Sentencing
There is a range of possible sentences for any given crime. A defense attorney will fight to get the most favorable sentence for an individual who is convicted of a crime.
Contact William Margolin, an Attorney With Experience in Lake and Cook County Criminal Law
If you or a loved one has a Lake or Cook County area criminal law problem, assistance from a skilled and knowledgeable defense attorney could be invaluable. Please contact the Law Office of William Margolin to schedule a no-fee consultation and learn more about your legal rights.
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