If you find yourself facing criminal charges in Texas, it’s natural to be concerned about the possibility of going to jail. The question of whether you will serve time can be complex, as it hinges on numerous factors, such as the nature of the charges, your criminal history, and the specific legal defenses that may apply to your case. Nonetheless, it’s crucial to understand that working with an experienced Dallas County Criminal Lawyer can significantly improve your chances of achieving a favorable outcome and potentially avoiding jail time. Please continue reading as the following blog explores the factors that can impact sentencing and the different methods a lawyer can employ to fight to keep you from serving time behind bars.
What Factors Can Impact Sentencing?
When you’re facing criminal charges, it’s crucial to understand that the courts will consider several factors when determining an appropriate sentence. It’s important to note that judges can deviate from the typical sentencing guidelines if they believe it’s warranted by the unique circumstances of the case. Nevertheless, a judge will consider the following:
- The severity of the offense (misdemeanor or felony)
- Aggravating factors (use of a deadly weapon or committing a hate crime)
- Mitigating factors (circumstances that lessen the severity of the offense)
- Victim impact
- Prior criminal charges
- If the court believes you can be rehabilitated
How Can A Lawyer Help Keep Me Out of Jail?
While there is no guarantee, the best way to avoid jail time is to enlist the help of a seasoned criminal defense lawyer. A criminal defense lawyer possesses the knowledge needed to provide you with the best chance of getting your charges dropped or reduced. They have a deep understanding of the law and experience defending cases. As a result, they can help you fight for the best possible outcome in your trial.
One of the most effective methods used to help avoid jail time is negotiating a plea bargain with the prosecution. Your lawyer will work with the prosecutor to lower the charges against you. In exchange for a reduced sentence which may not include jail time, you’ll need to plead guilty to a lesser charge. Even though you will be convicted, you may be able to forego time behind bars. They may even be able to secure an alternative to jail, such as going to a rehabilitation center, participating in community service, or even agreeing to home confinement.
Another option your lawyer can pursue to help keep you out of jail is to fight the charges during trial. They can examine the evidence and determine whether or not going to court is the best course of action given the unique circumstances of your case. They can gather evidence and raise any available defenses to get the case dismissed. If they can secure a not-guilty verdict, you can avoid going to jail.
As you can see, working with a skilled criminal defense lawyer can provide you with the best chance of avoiding jail time when facing criminal charges. At Spangler Law, we are prepared to defend your rights and represent your interests. Connect with our firm today to learn how we can fight for you.
