DEFENSE ATTORNEYS

Defense attorneys work with the issues surrounding the apprehension, searches of client or property, and arrest of their client (Fourth Amendment), as well as any statements the client may have made. (Fifth Amendment). Defense attorneys also deal with the substantive issues of the crimes with which their clients are charged. Defendants are entitled to the presumption of innocence until prosecutors prove each essential element of a crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Serious crimes (e.g. felonies) are tried to juries of twelve people and the jury must be unanimous in its verdict to either convict or acquit the defendant. A split in the jury is often called a "hung jury" and may result in a retrial of the defendant. Defense attorneys actively pursue their client's cause through all stages of a criminal prosecution.

Defense attorneys who are employed by governmental entities such as counties, states, and the federal government are often referred to as public defenders. These are often fresh law school graduates seeking to gain quick courtroom experience. There are also private defense attorneys who are retained by individual clients on a case by case basis.

States

Provinces

Countries