Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Cary, NC

Usually yes, at least when you are hiring your own attorney. If the attorney was court-appointed, the court will not assign the attorney to you, so if you want to get a new attorney you have to petition for one on the grounds that their legal counsel has been insufficient. We highly recommend that if you are having trouble with your lawyer, you try to hire a new one as early as possible, or arrange for a new attorney before firing your current one. Even the most experienced attorneys need time to review a case, and the court will unlikely agree to extend your trial date solely because you changed attorneys.

Yes. You should always take the advice of a lawyer to make such an important decision. Even if you believe pleading guilty is the right thing to do and the only way to atone for your wrongdoing, a lawyer can help you understand what your rights are and what you are pleading to so that you do not make any mistakes or plead to something you did not intend to.

Usually no, as the judge will likely give the arresting office several chances to make it to court to offer their testimony. If the officer fails to show several times and the prosecution's case relies heavily on their testimony, they may be forced to dismiss the case. This does not happen very often, and can only happen in traffic, minor misdemeanor cases, and sometimes DWI arrests.

Sometimes, but there's no guarantee that this officer will even be present for trial to testify in your support. If any promises or statements have been made in your support by officers or witnesses, make sure to let your attorney know as they will work to have them appear at trial to offer a favorable statement. However, even if the officer does tell the court that you were cooperative, there is no guarantee this will help your case. Cooperation is only considered under some circumstances in sentencing, and could be disregarded.

No, if you are brought on the stand you should not tell lies. There's an exceptionally high chance that you will get caught in the lie, which will subject you to further charges and hurt your chances to be found not guilty of get a reduced sentence. Any credible lawyer you hire will not agree to tell blatant lies for you either, it is important for them to understand all of the known facts and tailor an honest defense.