If I Plan to Plead Guilty, Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney?

If you have been accused of a crime and are planning on pleading guilty, you may think that there’s no point in hiring a criminal defense attorney. Why not represent yourself if you’re admitting to the crime anyway? 

However, the idea that you don’t need a criminal defense attorney for any reason during a criminal case is an enormous misconception that causes many people to be disadvantaged. 

Many folks believe that they do not need to hire a criminal defense attorney if they have already decided to plead guilty. However, hiring a criminal defense attorney is even more important if you plan to plead guilty. 

Why You Should Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney If You Plan to Plead Guilty

If you plan to plead guilty and you haven’t spoken to a lawyer, you’re putting yourself at a disadvantage that isn’t necessary. Most defense attorneys will advise you to plead guilty only in very specific circumstances, and pleading not guilty is a much more popular plea among defendants in criminal law cases. 

A skilled defense attorney can often find holes or inconsistencies in a prosecutor’s case against you, which means that it might not be in your best interests to plead guilty. A defense attorney might be able to use their experience and know-how to argue for a dismissal of your case or reduced charges. 

If, however, you have ultimately resolved to plead guilty, speaking with a criminal defense attorney could still be incredibly beneficial to you. A criminal defense attorney might be able to negotiate with the prosecution before you enter your plea, resulting in a better deal for you. 

Seeking Legal Aid From a Criminal Defense Attorney When Pleading Guilty

If you are a defendant in a criminal law case and plan to plead guilty, you need to contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Contact Shrader & Mendez, Tampa, Florida’s premier criminal defense firm, at (813) 360-1529.