No matter how intelligent a person may be, representing oneself in court is virtually impossible. This, in itself, is a compelling reason to hire an attorney. But in case more arguments are needed, here are four essential things attorneys do for their clients.
Negotiating Agreements with Prosecutors
Negotiating an agreement with a prosecutor can be extremely challenging for various reasons when done independently. Firstly, you might not know the arguments required to persuade a prosecutor. Moreover, you inherently have too much vested interest in the case’s outcome, hindering your ability to act with the necessary calm and tact. An attorney, on the other hand, possesses the skills and experience to negotiate on behalf of their clients.
Helping You Stay Grounded
A trial can be a stressful process during which the client may lose sight of what is reasonable due to emotional strain. For this reason, individuals representing themselves risk choosing strategies that don’t always make much sense from a legal standpoint. In short, clients often need someone to help them stay grounded, and an attorney is perfectly equipped to do that.
Assisting in Informed Decision-Making
In a court, as in any other place, things are not always what they seem. For example, an attorney can help clients understand the legal ramifications of decisions that may seem appealing (such as pleading guilty) to help them grasp the real impact on their legal situation.
Obtaining Crucial Information
Even if you have the legal knowledge to represent yourself in court, you likely don’t have the time to build a compelling and detailed case in your favor. This involves various tasks such as hiring and staying in touch with investigators, as well as obtaining information from witnesses. These are essential tasks that can make a significant difference, and only an attorney is prepared to handle them.
