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Simple English definitions for legal terms
criminal attorney
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A quick definition of criminal attorney:
A criminal attorney, also known as a criminal defense lawyer, is a type of lawyer who helps people who have been accused of committing a crime. They work to defend their clients in court and help them navigate the legal system. Criminal attorneys talk to their clients and witnesses to gather information, research the law to build a defense, gather evidence to support their case, and negotiate with the prosecution to try to reach a plea bargain. They also argue motions in court and may call expert witnesses to testify on behalf of their clients.
A more thorough explanation:
A criminal attorney, also known as a criminal defense lawyer, is a legal professional who specializes in defending individuals, organizations, and entities charged with crimes. They represent defendants in state, federal, and appellate courts.
Criminal attorneys perform various tasks to defend their clients, including:
- Interviewing the client and witnesses to gather facts
- Performing legal research to set up a defense and a case theory
- Gathering evidence in support of their case and analyzing the evidence presented against the client
- Drafting, filing, and arguing motions on behalf of the client
- Gathering expert witnesses to testify in court
- Discussing and negotiating a potential plea bargain with the prosecution
For example, if someone is charged with a crime, such as theft, they may hire a criminal attorney to defend them in court. The attorney will interview the client and any witnesses to gather information about the case. They will then perform legal research to develop a defense strategy and gather evidence to support their case. The attorney may also negotiate with the prosecution to reach a plea bargain or argue motions in court to defend their client.