Akron Criminal Defense Attorney

Attorney Benjamin W. Zushin has worked in prosecutor offices for different counties, and he has also worked as a staff attorney for a public defender's office. Having become well-versed in various local procedures as well as both sides of the courtroom in a criminal case, our Akron defense lawyer truly knows the inner workings of Ohio criminal courts. We bring this in-depth experience to every defense case we work on and have developed the specialized approach and skill that comes with regularly working on trial cases. You can be confident choosing us if you or your loved one faces misdemeanor or felony charges in Ohio.

What does this experience mean for estate planning and real estate cases? As a trial lawyer, Attorney Zushin knows how to prepare robust legal documents that will hold up in court. Our firm can help ensure that the wishes and decisions that you lay out in a will and trust will be upheld, even if those documents are subjected to scrutiny in court. With property disputes, real estate contracts, and landlord-tenant issues, we have the insight to help clients avoid litigation if need be, ensure that their rights are protected in the final resolution, and craft outcomes that will hold up if challenged later on. With our background in trial law, we can offer dynamic legal advice and make sure your rights and interests are fully protected.

What Do Criminal Defense Lawyers Do?

Criminal defense lawyers are legal professionals who specialize in defending individuals accused of committing crimes. Their role is to ensure that their clients receive a fair and just legal process while advocating for their rights and interests. Here are the key responsibilities and functions of criminal defense lawyers:

• Legal Counsel and Advice: Defense lawyers provide their clients with legal advice and guidance throughout the criminal justice process. They help clients understand the charges against them, potential consequences, and available legal strategies.
• Investigation: Attorneys conduct thorough investigations to gather evidence that supports their client's defense. This includes interviewing witnesses, reviewing police reports, and collecting physical evidence that can be used to challenge the prosecution's case.
• Legal Research: Criminal defense lawyers research relevant laws, statutes, and precedents to build a solid legal defense. They use this research to construct persuasive arguments tailored to their client's specific case.
• Negotiation: Defense attorneys negotiate with prosecutors to reach favorable resolutions, such as plea bargains or reduced charges, that are in the best interests of their clients. Their goal is to achieve the most advantageous outcome possible.
• Court Representation: Defense lawyers represent their clients in court proceedings, including arraignments, bail hearings, pretrial conferences, and trials. They present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and make legal arguments to defend their clients vigorously.
• Jury Selection: In cases that proceed to trial, defense attorneys participate in the selection of jurors to ensure a fair and impartial jury. This is essential to the client's right to a fair trial.
• Trial Defense: During a trial, criminal defense lawyers work tirelessly to create doubt in the prosecution's case, challenge evidence, and present alternative theories to persuade the jury of their client's innocence or mitigate the charges.
• Post-Conviction Actions: In the event of a conviction, defense attorneys continue to represent their clients during the sentencing phase and explore post-conviction options, including filing appeals or seeking pardons.
• Client Support: Beyond their legal duties, defense lawyers provide emotional support and guidance to their clients, helping them navigate the emotional and stressful process of facing criminal charges.
• Confidentiality: Attorneys uphold the attorney-client privilege, ensuring that communications between them and their clients remain confidential. This allows clients to share information openly with their lawyers without fear of it being used against them.

In summary, criminal defense lawyers play a crucial role in the criminal justice system, working tirelessly to protect their clients' rights, provide strong legal representation, and achieve the best possible outcomes in often challenging circumstances.

See how getting a trial lawyer and former prosecuting attorney on your side can make all the difference for your specific matter. Request your free consultation today.