Why a Former Prosecutor Should Handle Your Criminal Case
Joanne brings the unique insight and advantage of an experienced local Hawai‘i Prosecutor to your case. She has spent nearly the last decade working as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney - on O‘ahu, Kaua‘i, Maui, Moloka‘i, and Lāna‘i. At Hicks Law, we know how the State will approach your case, so you have a clear advantage in the courtroom.
The "former prosecutor" designation is more than just a label. Here are just a few of the benefits of having a former prosecutor by your side:
Insight Into Both Sides of the Courtroom
All former prosecutors have a comprehensive understanding of the entire trial process. They understand how current prosecutors collected related evidence, determined the charges to bring, and built their case to go to trial. And as we all know, if you know how to build something, then you know how to dismantle it. A criminal defense attorney with a background in prosecution can expose the weaknesses in the prosecution's argument and strengthen your defense.
Negotiate a Dismissal or Favorable Plea Offer
Most people are not aware that when prosecutors receive cases from the police department, a great deal of cases are declined. Cases are declined prior to formal charging because the case lacks enough evidence in order for the State to prove the elements of an offense to the standard of beyond a reasonable doubt. Or sometimes there is a problem with how evidence was obtained and will likely be suppressed at trial. When cases are charged by the State, they are charged by humans, and humans can and do make mistakes. As a former prosecutor with vast district and felony screening experience, Joanne can identify any possible grounds of dismissal that may exist in your case and move for dismissal.
As a former prosecutor, Joanne was in a position where she made hundreds of plea offers on behalf of the State. She can tell you whether you are getting a fair deal. Joanne will work to negotiate the most favorable deal possible for you. If the deal is not acceptable to you, we will take your case to trial.
Extensive Courtroom Litigation Experience
Most people do not know that many lawyers rarely or never set foot inside a courtroom. That's true even for many attorneys who specialize in litigation, because most cases are settled out of court without a trial. But an experienced prosecutor is a regular in the courtroom with ample trial experience. A former prosecutor is better prepared to protect your rights and future if your case reaches trial.
Strong Bonds with Local Judges and Courts
Each judge tends to rule a certain way on specific issues. Since former prosecutors have tried numerous cases in local court, they are familiar with preferences of a particular judge, and how that judge has often ruled in previous cases. That knowledge helps them determine whether you should accept a plea deal or go to trial.
