The Defense Process

Having worked with countless individuals and families facing some of the most challenging experiences life has to offer, our St. Louis criminal defense attorneys know that the criminal justice system can appear an intimidating and overwhelming challenge. As many of our clients are unfamiliar with the ways in which the legal system works, we always make it a point to ensure that they have all the information needed to begin their legal journey. If you or your loved one stands accused of a criminal charge, you can be sure that our legal team is here to guide you step by step through your unique defense process.

What You Can Expect
As an American citizen, you have the right to defend yourself against accusations made by the government. Asserting these rights, however, can be a difficult endeavor when you are not familiar with the legal system. Regardless of what your charge may be, criminal cases are matters of calculated and rigid proceedings. They entail procedural steps and timelines that you should be aware of and prepared for during your case.

While cases are always unique, the steps involved in the defense process are generally the same. After an arrest, you will have the right to seek legal representation so that you can have lawyers guiding you through this process one careful step at a time. You will also have the opportunity to prepare your defense, an endeavor that can be made much more effectively with the assistance of experienced lawyers. During this time, the government, including law enforcement officers and prosecutors, will be preparing their case against you.

After an arraignment - the process during which you are formally informed about the charges you face - pre-trial hearings may be held before any actual case begins. Pre-trial hearings permit a judge the opportunity to hear each side's arguments and establish the evidence to be presented during the case.

Your Unique Circumstances
Once formal protocol has been completed, including the arrest and booking process and arraignment, your unique circumstances will influence the trajectory of your case. Our legal team will work closely with you to establish all of your available defense options and choose the one most appropriate to your situation. Depending on the charges involved, you may find that negotiating a settlement or agreement with the prosecutor will be your best opportunity to reduce charges and penalties. As trial can also be a powerful tool in the hands of an experienced attorney, we can help you evaluate whether a trial is the best plan of action in your case.

Allow a St. Louis Criminal Defense Lawyer to Help You Begin Your Defense

Our attorneys are prepared to begin your unique defense process the moment you reach out to our firm. We want to stress that your specific situation and the facts surrounding your case will always ultimately impact how your defense process works. No matter where you or your loved one currently stands in the process, we encourage you to schedule a free case evaluation so that you can become prepared for what is to come. Find the support you need to guide you through your legal proceedings. Contact a St. Louis criminal defense lawyer from The Hammer Law Firm, LLC today.