Behind the Scenes: A Day in the Life of a Calgary Criminal Lawyer
Every day for a criminal lawyer in Calgary, there are new challenges and responsibilities as they help their clients navigate the legal system. The daily duties of a criminal lawyer require a combination of legal expertise, strategic thinking, and people skills.
Have you ever wondered what it takes to defend clients facing criminal charges? Here’s a glimpse into a lawyer’s day-to-day tasks and obligations.
Preparing for the Day Ahead
Many lawyers start their mornings by reviewing case files and court documents to prepare for scheduled hearings. Whether the accused is facing a serious or minor offence, the lawyer must understand the specifics of each case to create a defence plan.
Court Appearances
A lawyer may appear in court multiple times in a day. The lawyer’s role varies depending on each case’s progress. However, no matter the stage of the case, they are constantly fighting to secure the best possible outcome for their client.
Meeting with Clients
A Calgary criminal lawyer’s day also usually involves meeting with clients to discuss the status of their cases. These meetings keep clients informed about their cases and explore available defences. The legal system can be overwhelming for those facing criminal charges, so a lawyer might also use this time to offer support and reassurance.
Researching the Law
Each case is unique, requiring custom legal strategies based on the facts and legal principles involved. For that reason, a lawyer may spend hours researching the law, reviewing past cases, and examining legal precedents that can strengthen their defence.
Preparing for Trial
If a case is approaching its trial date, a lawyer may spend several hours each day in preparation. Trial preparation is an intensive process. It requires organizing evidence, preparing exhibits and drafting legal arguments. A lawyer must be ready to present a convincing case before the judge and, if applicable, a jury.
Meeting with witnesses is another part of trial preparation. The lawyer may need to speak with witnesses to gather additional information or prepare them for what to expect in court so that they can provide accurate and persuasive testimony.
Entering Pleas
Sometimes, a criminal lawyer will help a client enter a guilty plea. To enter a guilty plea, the client must appear in court to formally admit responsibility for the crime. The lawyer ensures that the plea is entered voluntarily and that the client is fully aware of the consequences.
Sentencing Preparation
If the client pleads guilty or is found guilty in a trial, the lawyer’s next step is to prepare for sentencing.
Sentencing hearings require the lawyer to present mitigating factors that could influence the judge to set a lighter sentence. The client’s lack of prior criminal record, remorse for the offence, or circumstances contributing to the criminal behaviour are examples of factors a lawyer might use to argue for leniency. The goal is to persuade the court to focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
Planning for the Next Day
At the end of the day, a lawyer typically updates case files and prepares for the following day as new cases arise and ongoing cases progress.
Pursuing justice is both challenging and fulfilling work. It demands a passion for fairness and strong commitment to defending the rights of those accused of crimes.
Are You Facing Criminal Charges in Calgary?
Criminal charges can be life-altering, but you don’t have to face them alone. Our experienced criminal lawyers at Muenz Law are prepared to guide you through every step. We dedicate each day to developing strong defence strategies and fighting for the best possible outcome for our clients. Let us help defend your rights.
Call 403-543-6666 or complete our contact form to schedule an appointment to discuss your case.