subject: Bizarre Tampa Case Illustrates Importance Of Having A Committed Defense Lawyer [print this page] A recent trial in Tampa illustrates the need for every defendant to have a dedicated, knowledgeable, expert criminal defense lawyer. The incident involved a defendant who managed to hide his true identity and his criminal past from state investigators, the State Attorney, and even his own criminal defense lawyer.
The truth was revealed just a few days before the convicted towing company owner was set to be sentenced for killing a man who was trying to get his car back. When the truth came to light, both prosecutors and the man's criminal defense lawyer learned that the man had a detailed criminal history with convictions in Florida, Pennsylvania, and Texas.
The man's defense lawyer was as stunned as anyone, but in a show of true professional conduct and in accordance with his commitment to his client, the lawyer has asked for the minimum sentence allowed. The lawyer has argued that though the information that has been brought forth is, in fact, surprising, all of it concerns previous cases that have no bearing on the current proceedings. He has suggested that perhaps the defendant was simply attempting to put his past behind him and move one.
The criminal defense lawyer in this case is highly illustrative of the commitment and dedication that a defendant should expect from a defense attorney. Regardless of someone's criminal past or the current criminal charges being faced, everyone who stands accused of a crime has the right to fair legal proceedings and the aid of a defense lawyer to serve as a legal representative. In this case, even though the prosecution tried to make much of the man's hidden past, the defense lawyer, though surprised by the information revealed, did not allow that to dissuade him from aggressively pursuing the minimum sentence allowed by law.
Most criminal cases are much more straightforward than this one; however, anyone charged with a criminal offense should seek a defense lawyer who displays the same level of dedication and commitment to providing the very best defense possible. In many cases, a defense lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors to get charges dropped or reduced. If that is not plausible, the lawyer will assiduously pursue the best defense available.
If you have had a run-in with the law in Tampa and are now facing criminal charges, you do not want to be without the services and legal counsel of an experienced Tampa criminal defense lawyer who will serve as your advocate before the court.
