The most essential right a person or company has when under investigation for a federal financial crime is the right to get a lawyer. Having a representative guide you through the trial process is essential to ensuring that a your rights are protected.
Retaining legal counsel experienced in handling financial crimes investigations is also important because if a defendant wants to avoid being charged, they must take every step possible to make that happen. An experienced criminal lawyer could handle communications between the party under investigation and the federal agency conducting the investigation, as well as provide support to a defendant every step of the way. A Charleston attorney could also help you weigh the costs and benefits of negotiating a settlement vs. going to trial in your federal financial crimes case.
Negotiating a Settlement
A benefit of attempting to negotiate a settlement and avoid federal trial is, if the defendant is guilty and that can be proven, then the attorney can focus on trying to minimize their losses so that they can keep on with their business and life.
A settlement can be negotiated anytime, even during the investigation phase. If a person has relevant information, they may be able to reach a non-prosecution agreement in exchange for cooperating with the government. Helping to assist them to either continue or close out their investigation could result in a dismissal of the charges against the defendant.
Settling a federal financial case instead of going to trial could save money and time overall, with the disadvantage of having a charge on the defendant’s personal record.
Going to Trial Represented by a Local Attorney
Going to trial for a federal financial crime is beneficial if the defendant wants to be acquitted. The only way for the defendant to be found not guilty is through trusting 12 jurors and having them find the defendant not guilty.
Much more time and money will go into a trial process, but if the defendant is not guilty and believes they have the proof, they may find that the costs are worth it. They are there because they believe in their innocence, and their Charleston lawyer believes it too.
Risks
The risks associated with going to trial for financial crimes are that the jurors will accept the government’s view of the case and will view the defendant suspiciously even though their lawyer has a valid explanation for the actions that they find. It is completely up to their discretion and can make going to trial a much risker process in relieving a person of their charges.
Going to federal court can also impact a person’s public image, especially if there are a lot of misperceptions. However, they will have a chance to salvage things with a great verdict from the jury.
Settlements vs. Trials in Charleston Federal Financial Crimes Cases
Determining whether to settle your case or fight the accusations against you in trial is not a decision you need to make on your own. You could hire an experienced Charleston criminal defense attorney to examine your federal financial crime case and explain the risks and benefits of a settlement vs. trial. Contact a lawyer to get ensure your rights are protected today.
