You definitely need a lawyer when you are charged with a crime, and you need to be very careful in choosing one.  You will need to choose someone who is experienced, aggressive and knowledgeable in Criminal Law.  Criminal cases can impact many aspects of your life.  Among other things, a criminal conviction could affect your freedom, your right to have a driver’s license, your right to own or possess a firearm, your right to vote, your future employability, and your ability to rent an apartment or a house.