The terms “criminal lawyer” and “criminal defense lawyer” are often used interchangeably, but there can be a subtle distinction between the two based on context. Generally, both terms refer to lawyers who specialize in handling cases related to criminal law, but the emphasis might differ.

• Criminal Lawyer:
  • The term “criminal lawyer” is a broad and generic term that encompasses attorneys who practice in the field of criminal law.
  • A criminal lawyer may work as a prosecutor or defense attorney, or they might engage in various aspects of criminal law, such as legal research, advising clients, or handling appeals.
  • Criminal lawyers can represent either the prosecution (government) or the defense (accused individuals). In this sense, a criminal lawyer may not necessarily focus solely on defense work.
• Criminal Defense Lawyer:
  • A “criminal defense lawyer” is a more specific term that refers to an attorney who specializes in representing individuals accused of criminal offenses.
  • The primary focus of a criminal defense lawyer is to advocate for the rights of the accused and provide a defense against criminal charges.
  • Criminal defense lawyers work to build a case that challenges the evidence presented by the prosecution, ensures the protection of their client’s rights, and aims to achieve the best possible outcome, which could include acquittal, reduced charges, or a favorable plea bargain.

In summary, while all criminal defense lawyers are criminal lawyers, not all criminal lawyers exclusively specialize in defense work. Some may work as prosecutors, handling cases on behalf of the government. The context in which the terms are used can help clarify the specific role and focus of the attorney. At Conviction Solutions we are criminal defense attorneys that specialize in overturning convictions. Many of our clients choose to work with us in their initial case, to ensure the most favorable outcome is reached. Find out the difference for yourself by working with our team.