As with any other issue in life, you should assess whether you have the experience, knowledge, and time to handle a matter on your own, or whether it is best to seek professional help from someone trained in the area. For most people, investing in a criminal defense attorney is the right choice, as a criminal lawyer is equipped with the specific educational and professional background to handle your case. Even for those with a criminal law background, hiring a defense attorney is a wise idea; as a defendant, you likely do not have the time, energy or emotional distance to view your case carefully, rationally, and objectively. A criminal defense attorney can lift the burden from your shoulders by dedicating her time, skills, and perspective to preparing the best possible defense for your case. Investing in your life and liberty always makes sense.