A criminal lawyer specializes in defending individuals or organizations that have been charged with criminal offenses or prosecuting them on behalf of the government.
There are two main types:
🔹 Defense Attorney
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Represents people accused of crimes.
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Works to protect the rights of the accused.
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May try to get charges reduced or dismissed, or defend the client at trial.
🔹 Prosecutor (District Attorney / State Attorney)
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Works for the government.
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Brings charges against someone accused of a crime.
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Tries to prove the defendant is guilty in court.
🧑⚖️ Common Tasks of a Criminal Lawyer
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Reviewing evidence and police reports
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Interviewing witnesses
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Filing or responding to legal motions
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Representing clients in court
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Negotiating plea bargains
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Advising clients on their rights and options
🧷 Types of Criminal Cases
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Misdemeanors (less serious crimes like petty theft, DUI, disorderly conduct)
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Felonies (more serious crimes like assault, robbery, drug trafficking, homicide)
🏛️ Where They Work
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Law firms (private defense attorneys)
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Public defender’s office (free legal help for those who can’t afford a lawyer)
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District attorney’s office (prosecutors)
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Solo practices