You have a constitutional right to represent yourself in a court of law, and most cases will not have one forced upon you. However, it would be in your best interest to have an experienced Tulsa criminal defense lawyer represent you in any criminal proceedings in which you are involved. Here are several reasons why:
A Lawyer Brings Knowledge of the Law to your Tulsa Criminal Case
It takes years of study and experience to become an attorney and learn proper legal procedure. So, while you have the right to represent yourself, it is simply not practical to think that you can learn court procedure, criminal procedure, rules of evidence, etc. in the time you will have to prepare your own case.
However, when you represent yourself, you will be deemed, in the eyes of the law, to have the same knowledge and understanding of the law as a Tulsa criminal lawyer. Thus, the courts will not extend leniency to you when you make critical legal and procedural errors because you didn’t fully understand the law, even if these mistakes could cost your freedom.
Lawyers Bring Experience to Your Defense
Another benefit of hiring a lawyer is the fact that you can draw upon his or her years of experience to know which issues you should pursue and which you should forego.
Everything you do in a criminal case has consequences, some of which may be difficult for even a seasoned attorney to foresee. However, an experienced criminal defense lawyer will have greater familiarity with the expectations of the court over someone who chooses to self-represent for the first time.
For example, if you feel that your rights were somehow suppressed when you were arrested or questioned, an experienced lawyer will know whether or not you actually have a cause of action and if it will be worth pursuing. This is something you are unlikely to be able to determine on your own.
A Lawyer Brings Objectivity to Your Case
An important quality you need to possess when handling your criminal case is objectivity. You will need to be able to see the bigger picture to choose which possible courses of actions to take and which to avoid, based on what is in your overall best interests. This level of objectivity is extremely difficult for any criminal defendant to do alone when facing a possible conviction and jail time.
A Lawyer is a Better Advocate for Your Innocence
Finally, how you present your case in court can have a huge impact on how it is received by the judge or jury. It is often better to have someone speak on your behalf than to speak for yourself. When you need to express to the court that you are a good father, husband, friend and a law-abiding citizen, it will simply be more believable coming from your attorney rather than from you. An advocate on your behalf can be much more effective in convincing others of your innocence.
Conclusion
While you have the right to defend yourself against criminal charges without a lawyer, it is in your best interest to hire a lawyer who has the knowledge, experience and objectivity to advocate on your behalf and achieve for you the best possible results. Your freedom may very well be at stake, so never go it alone. Even if you cannot afford a private attorney, you should request that a public defender be appointed to your case.
Initial Consultation: Tulsa Criminal Defense Lawyer
The cost of representing yourself in a criminal case can be severe. The state of Oklahoma imposes some of the harshest penalties in the nation. Fines, restrictive probation, and lengthy confinement are only part of the cost.
The attorneys at Tulsa Criminal Defense Law Firm have a solid track record of winning dismissals, acquittals and legal victories for clients.
To discuss your specific case, contact a skilled Tulsa criminal defense lawyer for a low-cost initial strategy session and case evaluation. Call today — 918-256-3400.