As criminal defense lawyers we do a lot more than question witnesses in court; as your defense lawyer we provide defendants with:

• Knowledgeable, objective perspective on their situation and what is likely to happen should their cases go to trial. This perspective is vital for defendants trying to decide whether to accept a prosecutor's offered "plea bargain".
• Formulate sentencing programs tailored to a client's specific needs, often helping defendants avoid future brushes with the criminal justice system.
• Knowledge of important legal rules because many criminal law rules are hidden away in court interpretations of federal and state constitutions.
• Knowledge of local court customs and procedures that are gained only by experience and are not written down anywhere (for example, a knowledgeable and experienced defense lawyer may know which prosecutor has the "real" authority to settle a case, and what kinds of arguments are likely to appeal to that prosecutor).
• Clear understanding of the possible "hidden costs" of pleading guilty which a self-represented person might never think about.
• Gather information from prosecution witnesses. Hire investigators, who may be able to find information inconsistent with information provided by prosecution witnesses.