Loss of freedom. Expensive fines. A criminal record. Restrictions on your future employment. If you face criminal charges in Minnesota, the consequences may change your life. You need a criminal defense attorney, and not just any lawyer will do. You'll want to hire an experienced professional. You'll require an attorney who knows the ropes in Minnesota -- someone with deep knowledge of local laws and the ins-and-outs of the court system.

Here are the top 10 reasons to hire a criminal defense attorney in Minnesota.

1. You will have one person in the criminal justice system you know is on your side. When dealing with judges, prosecutors, the police and witnesses you will benefit from having an experienced professional who's concerned with your best interests.

2. You will have hired an adviser who knows the local court system. Every court system has its unique aspects. Minnesota is no exception. Your criminal defense attorney will know which local laws are relevant to your case. He or she will examine the facts in the case and identify the evidence that is most effective for your defense.

3. An experienced criminal defense attorney will take the time to understand your case. Your attorney will not let you become just another statistic in the criminal justice system.

4. Hiring a criminal defense attorney means hiring an expert. You'll have an adviser who understands the fine points of criminal law, especially Minnesota's legal code. Your attorney will also have access to resources, including investigators and expert witnesses, who can participate in your defense if needed.

5. Your criminal defense attorney will guide you through the maze-like procedures that often surround criminal legal proceedings – entering a plea, attending hearings, obtaining bond, preparing testimony, locating witnesses, and evaluating the evidence.

6. Your attorney will take the lead in negotiations with prosecutors to potentially dismiss or reduce the charges against you. When you hire a qualified, experienced criminal defense attorney who practices in Minneapolis, you will benefit from having an advocate who knows the local prosecutors and has experience negotiating with them. Your attorney will advise you on your best options if you are offered a plea bargain or reduced sentence.

7. If your case goes to trial, your attorney will help you select the best approach, including whether to testify, and if you should request a judge or jury trial.

8. Your attorney will review all of the evidence against you and seek to dismiss anything that is unproven, unfair, or not allowed under Minnesota law.

9. Even if you have to face some consequences, your criminal defense attorney will help you make the strongest case for a reduced or suspended sentence, lower fines, less time on probation or fewer restrictions on your activities.

10. Your criminal defense attorney will allow you to face the Minnesota court system with confidence that you've done the most you can to protect yourself. The right to hire an attorney is a basic civil right, one that can help you to preserve your rights and safeguard your future.

The information you obtain from this article is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for individual advice regarding your own situation.