Monder Law Group - News
Do You Have to Hire a Lawyer for a Trial?
So, you’re wondering if you need a lawyer for a trial? Our advice, straight off the bat, is go for it because every second counts. Whatever trial you might be involved in, securing the services of an experienced defense attorney should be your top priority.
When it comes to legal matters, the more you know, the better. You should understand the differences between criminal and civil law, know what it means to be an accomplice, and be aware of the applicable statute of limitations. However, as much as you learn, you still need a lawyer, and here’s why.
Do you really need a lawyer?
On the one hand, depending on the case in question, the law does not require you to hire legal representation, as we’ll see later on. However, we would strongly advise that you, at least, consider hiring an attorney, and not do it on your own.
California Department of Justice can be an extremely difficult terrain to maneuver, sometimes even for an experienced lawyer. Without one, it can become virtually impossible to do. You will need legal help, and here’s why:
- The law – The law is complicated, and it might pose an insurmountable hurdle for anyone not familiar with the nuances.
- Costs – Depending on the case, not hiring a lawyer can end up costing you a lot more if you don’t secure a favorable sentence.
- Documentation – Lawyers know which documents to file, and where to do it. If you file a wrong document, miss a deadline, or fail to follow the protocol to the letter, you might end up with the sentence that doesn’t suit you.
- Evidence – More specifically, challenging evidence. Some evidence against you may have been obtained improperly, and a good lawyer will know where to look and how to challenge that evidence.
- Representation – Lawyers are trained to present cases, while you are probably not. An experienced legal professional will know how to best represent your case.
- The other party – Will probably have legal representation. If you go against a lawyer on your own, chances are it’s not going to turn out good.
- Experts – Finally, lawyers know many experts that can come and speak on your behalf, either challenging evidence, or help discover missing evidence that would work to your favor.
Can you go to trial without a lawyer?
As we’ve said before, you can go to trial without a lawyer, except for malpractice cases, cases involving construction defects, wrongful termination, administrative writs, and real estate titles.
When it comes to other cases, you can represent yourself in the court of law if you wish, you just have to request it. However, once again, we strongly urge you to hire legal representation, because the consequences of you not doing so can be severe.
But, if you’re that set on doing it all on your own, we’ll give you a couple of tips on how to prepare for the trial:
- Read all you can about the aspects of the law that are important for your case.
- Try to find other options, ones that will solve the case before it has to go to court.
- Learn how to follow court procedures. You have to read the California Rules of Court and the California Code of Civil Procedures.
- Keep a close watch on all the deadlines for filing paperwork.
- Visit a courtroom, watch several court proceedings, and try to memorize every aspect of a trial, e.g. where parties sit, how representatives explain cases to a judge, etc.
- Prepare copies of all the paperwork relevant to your case.
- If you do end up going to court, try to act as professionally as you can.
- Respect everyone involved in the proceedings, including the other party.
“I’ve changed my mind, where can I find a good defense attorney in San Diego?”
You’ve made the right choice deciding to hire legal representation for your case. If you’re looking for an experienced and committed legal professional in San Diego, you should go to Vik Monder Criminal Lawyer Group. We have assembled a superstar team of lawyers that will do everything to secure a favorable verdict for you. If you’re ever near Old Town State Historic Park, come to our office for a consultation.
