Why You Shouldn’t DIY Your Defense In Court

While you can represent yourself in court, doing so is not a good idea. The law is complicated, and if you are inexperienced with its use, navigating the courtroom and procedures can be quite daunting for seemingly simple matters. Just because you can walk into a courtroom and represent yourself does not mean that you are going to do a great job. In order to save yourself from a life in prison, jail, or from paying exorbitant penalties, Law Office of M. Byron Morgan has written down a few pointers that emphasize on why you shouldn’t DIY defending yourself against an accusation of committing a crime.

1. You can end up arguing yourself into prison or jail

People representing themselves tend to get nervous and become defensive under pressure. Instead of attacking the evidence, you may resort to making emotional arguments and reduce your effectiveness. You might also lack specialized knowledge and experience. While attempting to plead your case, you may say things that hurt your case. For example, the facts that you might believe to support your case may not be a good legal defense to the actual charge.

2. Do-overs will cost you more than just money

While you may think you are saving yourself money, consider the lifetime cost of the poor decisions made. Your chances of winning your case are slim. Statistics show that pro se defendants typically lose. Plus, just because you are representing yourself doesn’t mean that the court will take pity on you. Throwing yourself at its mercy can prove counterproductive. In your naivety, you may disrupt the court unknowingly, thus irritating the judge, which can have bad consequences for your case. Therefore, by the time you realize you are in over your head, it is too late to backtrack and hire a lawyer.

Do things right - Hire a professional

Without legal training and courtroom experience, it is highly unlikely you can do this on your own. Attorneys go through several years of law school to learn how to advocate for their clients in an efficient manner. For that reason, hiring one who has substantial experience regarding your case will be in your best interest. It will give your case a much higher chance of succeeding. All attorneys in Georgia are licensed by the State Bar of Georgia. They know how to conduct a hearing or a trial as they have the experience of going to law school, studying evidence presentation, and knowing how to examine and cross-examine witnesses. As professionals, they know how to argue your side without becoming unduly emotional. Additionally, retaining an experienced criminal defense attorney who knows the local personalities can give you the advantage you need to win your case.

If you are looking for a criminal defense attorney in Jonesboro, Georgia, then reach out to us at Law Office of M. Byron Morgan. Our criminal defense attorney has extensive knowledge of the law and works with you to build a strong case. Whether you need help with negotiations or litigation, our criminal defense attorney provides you with zealous representation. Our legal services include sex crime and child crime defense, major felony defense, domestic violence defense, drug crime defense, juvenile crime defense, Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) law, etc. We serve clients on the Southside of Atlanta, including Jonesboro, Mcdonough, Griffin, Newnan, Stockbridge, Peachtree City, Fayetteville, Senoia, Clayton, Henry, Fayette, Spalding, Butts, Pike, Meriwether, Upson, Barnesville, Riverdale, Lovejoy, Hampton, and Jackson, Georgia. Visit our website to learn more or contact Law Office of M. Byron Morgan today.