Law Offices of Bernadette A. Smith, P.C.: Smart and Effective Criminal Defense
If you have been accused of committing a crime in New York, you face a very difficult ordeal. You need to know what your rights are. At the Law Offices of Bernadette A. Smith, P.C.. we’re very familiar with the legal landscape, and we know what it takes to deliver a favorable outcome. We will happily guide you through the complexities of the criminal justice system.
The Repercussions of Guilty Pleas and Criminal Sentencing
If you are accused of a crime, you have two basic choices: You can go to trial or you can plead guilty. Sometimes, a case may be dismissed, but no one can predict when that may happen. If you are found guilty after a trial or you decide to plead guilty, your sentence will vary considerably based on the nature of your criminal charges. Often, when considering the impact of criminal proceedings, alleged offenders forget the financial burden brought about by an undesirable sentence. Even if you escape jail time, you may also face dozens of community service hours, mandated participation in education efforts, extensive probation periods, and time behind bars. Upon serving your sentence, you may find it more difficult to obtain housing or employment.
Given the severe repercussions that accompany criminal charges, you cannot afford to enter the justice process without strong legal representation. Your attorney could help you avoid or significantly lighten the consequences outlined above, while also minimizing the impact to your criminal record or keeping it completely clean. Possible case outcomes could include reduced sentencing, case dismissal, or a not guilty verdict after a trial.
Why Work With the Law Offices of Bernadette A. Smith, P.C.?
Bernadette A. Smith is a former prosecutor and worked as a Principal Court Attorney to a Criminal Court Judge. She assisted the Judge by researching legal issues and preparing drafts of legal opinions and decisions.
An ideal criminal defense attorney offers a mix of qualities designed to best influence every situation that arises during a criminal case. During private consultations, your attorney should demonstrate patience and compassion, but also honesty; you deserve to hear the full reality of your case, even if it means receiving undesirable feedback. In court, your attorney should advocate zealously on behalf.
When you work with the Law Offices of Bernadette A. Smith, P.C., you’ll witness all these qualities — and more. We offer the appropriate balance between compassion and assertiveness. We’re there to support you, but we understand that the best support is honest and, in court, aggressive.
Don’t let criminal charges destroy your future. With the Law Offices of Bernadette A. Smith, P.C., you can get through this difficult time and move on with your life. We’ll guide you through every step of the criminal justice process, advocating passionately on your behalf the entire way.