Criminal defense isn't just about representing the accused in a single case. Conversely, criminal defense is about protecting the rights of every citizen. You are entitled to a fair trial and due process during any criminal proceeding, and the ensuing investigation by local, state or federal authorities must be done properly and according to the law. If investigators try to cut corners or unlawfully obtain evidence, the case can be thrown out.

The act of defending an accused person is actually the act of defending your civil liberties. For two younger men in Waukesha, Wisconsin, the reality of criminal defense is squarely in front of them after the two were charged with one count of burglary each late last month. The charges carry prison terms that reach nearly 13 years and fines of $25,000.

The two men, an 18-year-old from Waukesha and a 20-year-old from Chicago, stole a video game console and accessories from a man's home. The criminal complaint claims that the man and the 20-year-old were in a previous altercation over a drug deal, and that the 18-year-old accompanied his friend to commit the robbery.

These are young men who are still learning about the world around them, and with inexperience comes mistakes. Should they have to pay with nearly 13 years of their lives over stolen video games? It seems like an excessive charge that the prosecution is pursuing, and the accused men will seek the counsel of an attorney. An experienced criminal defense lawyer could get their charges reduced or even thrown out, depending on how the investigation is handled.

Source: Waukesha Patch, "Disagreement Over Drug Sale Escalates to Violence, Slashed Tires, Burglary," Joe Petrie, Feb. 7, 2012