Millions of crimes occur each year, and the police can arrest individuals when they suspect crimes. If you are currently facing a criminal charge for an alleged crime, you'll have to go through the criminal law process. You'll likely have many questions if this is your first time. Keep reading to learn about three vital things you must know as you work through the criminal law process.

1. The process takes time  

You might be surprised to learn how long a criminal case takes, especially if this is your first criminal charge. You can't settle a criminal case overnight. In fact, it might take an entire year to settle the matter. Criminal cases require a process, and they often begin with an arrest. After the arrest, you'll likely attend several court hearings. Each hearing might be months apart, but each serves a specific role. The actual length of your case depends on many factors, but you shouldn't expect the case to settle quickly. This is just not how criminal law works.

2. Your lawyer doesn't have to prove innocence

Secondly, you should know that your lawyer doesn't have to prove innocence in your case if you take it to trial. Instead, the burden is on the prosecution to prove that you're guilty. Your lawyer's primary job is to instill doubt in the court's mind, as they can't legally pronounce you guilty if there is doubt that you committed the crime.

3. You can take a plea bargain 

The third thing to know is that you don't have to go to trial. Instead, you can accept the plea bargain the prosecutor offers. This deal requires that you admit guilt to a crime in exchange for a reduction of charges or consequences. Accepting a plea bargain has its pros and cons, and you can ask your lawyer what to do. Lawyers can review plea bargains for their clients. Then, they'll give you advice about handling it. If you don't accept it, you will take the risk of being found guilty by the court.

Hire the best lawyer for your case 

Having a great criminal defense lawyer is the best thing you can do when facing criminal charges. A great lawyer knows the system and court and can guide you through the process. You can search your area for criminal lawyers, but make sure you choose the best and most experienced one you find.

To find out more, contact a company like Baber & Baber, P.C. Attorneys at Law.