In his 30 years of practicing law, Rockville area criminal and traffic attorney Leon Geller has been representing criminal-traffic offense defendants. He has been approached by many individuals who state things such as, “I didn’t want to take the plea, but my previous attorney made me.” At the Law Office of Leon Geller, it is important the client knows they have control over their case. It is the attorney’s role to present the client with all of the options and guide them in making their decision.
Criminal-Traffic Offense Defendants have 3 Choices to make when Moving Through the Criminal Justice System:
Plea vs. Trial
- Near North Potomac-Darnestown, Bethesda-Garrett Park, Kensington, Gaithersburg, Redland-Derwood, and Rockville, Maryland.
One of the most basic rights in the criminal justice system is the right to a trial. In most cases, the prosecutor will make a plea offer. Attorney Leon Geller thoroughly reviews plea offers with his clients. In addition, he also reviews the evidence to determine whether the prosecutor can prove the case. After, Attorney Leon Geller presents the options, the client decides if they want to accept the plea or decline and proceed to trial. In the District Court for all Maryland counties, any trial is before a judge. However, in the Circuit Court, a defendant has the option to choose a jury.
Judge vs. Jury
- Near North Potomac-Darnestown, Bethesda-Garrett Park, Kensington, Gaithersburg, Redland-Derwood, and Rockville, Maryland.
If a client wishes to have a trial, they next have to decide if they would like a jury trial or a bench trial. In addition, in a jury trial, there are generally 12 people from the community that decide the case. Whatever the verdict, all jurors must unanimously agree. In a bench trial, a single judge decides the case.
Testify vs. Remain Silent
- Near North Potomac-Darnestown, Bethesda-Garrett Park, Kensington, Gaithersburg, Redland-Derwood, and Rockville, Maryland.
Finally, if a client chooses to have a trial, the third decision will be whether they testify. In criminal cases, the defendant has the right to remain silent. If the client does choose to testify, attorney Leon Geller will walk them through their testimony beforehand. Also, it will be made sure the client is prepared not only for questions that attorney Leon Geller will ask, but also for questions raised by the prosecutor during cross examination.
Whether the client is charged with a DUI, drug possession, or any other criminal offense, it is the attorney’s duty to guide and inform the client. However, it is not to make the final decision. Also, the client is encouraged to ask for advice, but must ultimately make their own choice in how their case is handled.
Do You Need a Reliable, Educated Attorney in Maryland?
As a solo practitioner, Leon Geller will be handling every aspect of your case. From interviews and investigations to court appearances. Leon Geller is a Criminal Lawyer, Traffic Offense Lawyer, and Traffic Offense Attorney for North Potomac-Darnestown, Bethesda-Garrett Park, Kensington, Gaithersburg, Redland-Derwood, and Rockville, Maryland, 20874, 20878, 20854, 20859. Contact Leon Geller today and he’ll get you started!
