The Costly Consequences of Ineffective Representation
Your freedom, reputation, and future are on the line when facing criminal charges. The effectiveness of your legal representation could make a substantial difference in the outcome of your case.
Unfortunately, not everyone can find a criminal defense attorney who provides effective legal representation. As a result, ineffective representation could result in the defendant receiving a less favorable outcome.
As a private practice attorney at Faussette & Faussette, I will work to defend you in your case and provide personalized legal representation. I can bring extensive legal knowledge to your situation and help you understand ways to avoid or overturn a conviction. From my office in Phoenix, Arizona, I am proud to serve clients in all of the greater Phoenix area.
Ineffective Representation
Ineffective representation, which is also known as inadequate assistance of counsel, could be a violation of your right to counsel protected by the Sixth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for people facing criminal charges to be represented by private attorneys or public defenders who lack the time, expertise, or knowledge to zealously and effectively represent them.
As a result, a defendant may end up with ineffective representation. Legal representation is considered ineffective if there is reasonable cause to believe that the mistakes of the private attorney or public defender could change the outcome of your case.
Some of the most common forms of ineffective representation include an attorney’s failure to:
Properly investigate possible defense strategies
Interview witnesses
Enlist expert witnesses to challenge the prosecution’s case
Attend hearings
File appropriate motions
Assert proper defenses
Inform you of your legal options
Conduct comprehensive investigation
Consult with you before making key decisions in your case (e.g., accepting a plea deal)
Ineffective representation could result in a wrongful conviction, which is why it is critical to have a skilled and experienced criminal defense attorney for the best possible outcome in your case.
The Consequences of Having Ineffective Representation
The consequences of having ineffective representation could be dire:
Preventable penalties. A conviction as a result of ineffective representation could lead to preventable penalties. In particular, inadequate assistance of counsel could lead to time behind bars.
Lost time. Ineffective representation could waste valuable and precious time in your criminal case and make it more difficult to fix your situation later in the case.
Avoidable criminal record. If you are convicted because your attorney provides inadequate representation, you will have a criminal record that could haunt you for the rest of your life.
If you believe that your attorney’s inadequate representation has affected the outcome of your criminal case, you may be able to pursue a claim of ineffective assistance of counsel. Consider contacting an experienced attorney to evaluate your specific situation and determine if you have grounds to challenge your conviction.
Qualities in an Effective Attorney
When looking for a lawyer, you need to make sure that you hire someone who possesses the qualities to advocate for your rights and provide you with effective legal representation. Some of the qualities to look for in an effective defense attorney are:
Experience
Diligence
Attention to detail
Client-centered approach
Compassion
Communication and listening skills
Discretion
If you are looking for a criminal defense attorney, you need someone who can defend your rights and ensure that you receive the representation you can rely on. If an attorney has the above-mentioned qualities, you are more likely to receive adequate legal representation.
Experienced Guidance Every Step of the Way
As a criminal defense attorney at Faussette & Faussette, I am committed to providing every client I serve with the most effective representation possible. It is my job to achieve the best possible results for my clients in Phoenix, Arizona, and throughout the Valley and neighboring areas, including Tempe, Glendale, Chandler, Peoria, and others. Reach out to my office today to discuss ways I can help you with your case.