If a person is facing criminal charges, they may wonder if they need to find a criminal attorney in Vermont. Lawyers can use their years of experience to help clients form solid legal strategies during a criminal case. Below are several situations in which defendants should have legal representation.
When Facing Felony Charges
If a client is facing felony charges, they may get more than a year in prison in addition to heavy fines and steep court costs. For instance, murder is a Class 1 felony; it carries a penalty of up to life in prison as Vermont rarely uses the death penalty. Felony records can change a person’s life, and hiring a criminal lawyer is a wise decision.
After Misdemeanor Charges
A misdemeanor offense, including driving under the influence, can carry a penalty of up to a year in county jail, high fines and other sanctions. Misdemeanor charges can have a surprising effect on a person’s life; in some cases, it can even prevent a person from getting a job or an apartment. Defense lawyers can help clients fight these charges and restore their chance at a normal, legitimate and productive life.
Subsequent Crimes
When a person has a criminal past and they receive a later conviction, their penalties may be harsher than for someone with a clean record. For example, if someone is a felon and they receive another felony conviction, they can receive five years or more beyond the normal sentence. In these cases, hiring a criminal attorney in Vermont may be able to help a person avoid another conviction.
At the office of Jason J. Sawyer Attorney & Counselor At Law, the attorneys understand the effects of solid advocacy on a case’s outcome. The team is committed to providing each client with the legal advice they need to achieve the most favorable outcome possible. If the time comes when someone needs competent representation from a criminal defense attorney, they can count on a local firm to provide the advocacy and advice they need. Call the office or visit the website for more details or to schedule a consultation.