Being charged with a criminal offense is daunting, especially if the prosecution is bringing more than one charge against you. If you are facing multiple charges it is crucial that you understand your legal rights and options. Reach out to an experienced Bergen County criminal defense attorney today to obtain representation and skilled legal advice during your case.
Charge stacking is a tactic that prosecutors often use in an effort to ensure that a defendant is convicted of at least one crime. A prosecutor will take one incident and attempt to charge an individual with as many separate offenses as possible. This increases the odds of a conviction and makes the defendant seem like a more severe offender than if they were facing only one charge.
Regardless of the number of criminal charges being brought against you, you can take comfort in knowing that your rights do not change. You are still entitled to an attorney, a fair trial, a jury of your peers, etc. However, if you are facing multiple charges it can be detrimental to your appearance to the jury or judge and increase the chances that you will be convicted of at least one offense.
If you are facing multiple criminal charges, understanding all of your rights is crucial. The Eighth Amendment of the United States Constitution grants individuals the right to avoid excessive and cruel or unusual punishments. This offers legal protection for defendants against punishments that do not fit the crime, as in they are too severe or disproportionate to the individual’s actions. When prosecutors use charge stacking, there is a potential for you to be convicted of several charges. This increases the amount of fines and jail time you are sentenced to which could result in penalties that are far too severe for the crime that was committed. You and your attorney could exercise your Eighth Amendment right to ensure that you are not given excessive consequences.
If the prosecution is stacking charges against you, it is important that you hire an attorney. You should always hire a defense attorney when facing criminal charges, but this is especially true if you have multiple charges against you. Your lawyer will help you collect evidence, build a strong case, negotiate with various parties, etc.
Also, consider a plea bargain. Prosecutors often use charge stacking as a way to increase the odds of you accepting a plea bargain. Your attorney can help negotiate a deal where you plead guilty in exchange for a reduced sentence or a lesser number of charges against you.
Understanding your rights and legal options is crucial in ensuring that you are protected throughout the legal process and do not receive unfair or excessive penalties for your crime. For more information and to obtain skilled representation, contact an experienced attorney at the Law Office of Attorney Conway today.
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