A criminal justice lawyer helps people who have been accused of a crime. They defend them in court and fight for their rights. Criminal justice lawyers in Toronto can belong in any of these two categories:

• Court-appointed
• Paid justice lawyers

Court-appointed lawyers are government workers and are, therefore, paid by the state. The other category is private attorneys who may have their own practice or belong to a criminal law firm in Toronto. Below, we briefly explain the steps through which justice attorneys perform lawyerly duties:

Case assigning

The state or federal government usually appoints court lawyers to represent persons who can not afford legal representation. A person charged to court can seek out a paid justice lawyer to defend them if they can afford it. A company or organization may also contact a paid lawyer to deal with their court cases. This is how a justice lawyer gets assigned cases in the legal settings where they work.

Conduct interviews to learn about the case 

The justice lawyer meets with the accused or their client to interview them. They ask questions and gather information about the case. They determine all the weak and strong points of the case by thoroughly interviewing the client or defendant. 

Research and analyze evidence

The lawyer begins an investigation into the case. They will gather evidence and analyze them by visiting the crime scene (if necessary), questioning witnesses, talking to the police, etc. If their client is the defendant, the goal is to develop a strong defense for a favorable verdict. The defendant or client’s interest and rights are always the lawyer’s first and most important consideration. The lawyer may also review the prosecution’s record of the case to identify inconsistencies. They will examine all the facts and the evidence gathered and identify areas where they can present strong arguments to refute the claims.

Plea bargaining 

The criminal justice lawyer may then meet with the prosecution or the other side to negotiate on behalf of the defendant. Depending on the evidence and the case, they may try to negotiate a reduction in the charges or drop them altogether. 

The trial

The justice lawyer represents the defendant during the trial. They fight for them by presenting a tangible defense for the case. They will question witnesses during the hearing, present evidence, and try to convince the court of a beneficial outcome. 

If there is a sentencing

If the defendant pleads guilty, there will be sentencing. The justice lawyer will advise the defendant on preparing for this. They will assist with any requested reports and collect information that helps their argument for a lesser punishment or jail term. 

Conclusion

The first thing to do if you are charged with a crime is to seek out a good criminal justice lawyer. They are thoroughly knowledgeable about criminal law and will guide you through the rough process. You will receive the right legal advise and have a professional on your side to fight for you.