- Defending a Guilty Person
- Advantages of a Lawyer’s Defense
- Example of a Famous Case
- Lawyer’s Responsibility
Defending a Guilty Person
When someone is accused of a crime, the natural instinct is to plead not guilty and fight the charges. But, in a criminal case, the accused may decide to plead guilty and accept a punishment. In this situation, the role of a lawyer is still important, because the lawyer is obligated to protect the accused’s rights and to make sure the sentence is fair. It is the job of a lawyer to defend even those who are guilty of a crime.
Advantages of a Lawyer’s Defense
Advantages of a Lawyer’s Defense include the ability to seek a reduced sentence, represent the client in court, appeal a conviction, and negotiate with the prosecutor. A lawyer can advocate for a lesser sentence that is appropriate for the crime committed and present the facts and circumstances of the case to the judge in an effort to influence the sentence. In addition, a lawyer may be able to file an appeal on the client’s behalf, which is a complex process that requires an understanding of the law and the ability to argue legal points. Additionally, a lawyer can negotiate with the prosecutor to reach an agreement, such as a plea bargain, which can result in a reduced sentence or a dismissal of certain charges.
Example of a Famous Case
The lawyer-client relationship requires confidentiality, so the details of the defense are not always publicly known. However, one famous example of a lawyer defending a guilty person is the case of attorney John Adams’ defense of the British soldiers accused of the Boston Massacre. Adams was offered a commission to represent the soldiers, even though he knew that they were guilty, and he was successful in getting a not-guilty verdict for six of the eight defendants.
Lawyer’s Responsibility
Whether a person is innocent or guilty, they deserve to have their rights protected by an experienced attorney. In some cases, the lawyer may be able to argue for a reduced sentence or other favorable outcome. But even if this is not possible, the lawyer can at least ensure that the proceedings are conducted fairly and that the client is treated with respect. Ultimately, a lawyer’s job is to provide the best possible legal representation for the client, regardless of guilt or innocence. It is a lawyer’s responsibility to provide a vigorous defense of the accused’s rights and to seek a just result.