Select a Military Criminal Defense Lawyer Wisely
January 27th 2012 -
Military Criminal Defense Lawyers are lawyers with special training in the uniform code of military justice. These lawyers may be in the military themselves or civilian lawyers specializing in military justice. Many civilian lawyers practicing military law are former members of the military and are formally trained in military law.
Members of the military who are charged with a crime are entitled to a military lawyer free of charge or may hire a civilian lawyer at their own cost. Statistics indicate that a military person charged with a crime is much better off hiring a civilian lawyer specializing in military law. The military has a 90% conviction rate and quite often military personnel plead guilty without any effort at a defense.
Military personnel have rights and should present a vigorous defense when accused of a crime. They have the right to legal representation and the right to remain silent. Often with civilian representation the outcome is favorable for the defendant. Before selecting a military criminal defense lawyer, review the last several cases handled to determine the defense capability. Many lawyers in the military plea most of their cases and a vigorous defense may not be forth coming with certain lawyers. Be very selective and careful with the choice of lawyer as the future may well depend on a wise choice.