A good criminal defense lawyer can be the difference between lengthy incarceration and heavy fines to getting probation and being able to return to your home. A lawyer is your own personal advocate in the court room. While you are usually unable to speak candidly to prosecutors or see evidence against you before your court date, an attorney can speak directly to prosecutors and negotiate plea bargains on your behalf. They can poke holes in the prosecution’s case and law enforcement testimony, and ensure your civil rights are not only protected, but aggressively enforced, from start to finish of your case.