If you have been charged with a crime in North Carolina, you may be wondering about next steps. This process can be even more complicated if you live in another state and were arrested while in North Carolina. You may wonder whether you should hire a lawyer where you live or where you were arrested. It does indeed matter where you retain counsel and in which state your lawyer is licensed to practice. It is important to hire a lawyer in the state in which you were arrested. It is additionally beneficial to hire a lawyer who works in the same county or district in which you will be tried.
Why an Out-of-State Lawyer Cannot Represent You
Lawyers are licensed in specific states, and they can only work in states in which they have passed the bar and are licensed. When you are arrested and charged, before you are released, you will likely be given a notice to appear. This notice will tell you the court where you will be tried. It will be in the same county or district in which you were arrested. It is important to hire a lawyer who can represent you here. While you may know a lawyer well who lives in your home state, they may not be able to represent you in the court in which you are being tried, and they would likely not be familiar with the state laws that you are being charged with, as laws vary from state to state.
Benefits of Hiring Local Counsel
There are many benefits to hiring local counsel even beyond their ability to represent you legally and their extensive understanding of the state laws that affect you. One of the biggest benefits to retaining a lawyer who works in the same area in which you are being tried, is that they will be familiar with the court. These lawyers have likely been trying cases in the courthouse in which you will be tried most days of the week for years. They will know the judges and prosecutors who have a huge stake in your fate. This increases your chances of being able to negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecution. It also means that your lawyer will likely be familiar with the judge who is trying your case and can develop your defense strategy accordingly. It is also important to make sure that your lawyer feels like a good fit, and that you can trust them to represent you to the best of their ability. It is always a good idea to meet or schedule a call with an attorney to have a consultation before deciding whether to retain them.
Contact Coastal South Law
If you are facing criminal charges in Southeastern North Carolina, you need reliable and experienced local counsel who will advocate for your rights and ensure the best possible outcome in your trial. Contact the criminal defense attorneys at Coastal South Law today to schedule a consultation and find out how we can help you.
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