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ARTICLE · 01 FEBRUARY 2022

How can a lawyer defend someone who is guilty?

Astor Legal
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There are strict rules in place that govern the how legal practitioners conduct themselves when faced with such a dilemma.

AustraliaCriminal Law
Avinash Singh
Avinash Singh
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One of the most common questions asked of the legal profession is, how can a criminal lawyer defend someone who is guilty?

There appears to be a view that a criminal defence lawyer uses technical arguments or legal loopholes to free persons who are ostensibly guilty of offences. Further, a prevailing view in the community is that most accused criminals face serious allegations such as murder or sexual offences.

However, there are strict rules in place that govern the how legal practitioners conduct themselves when faced with such a dilemma.

Can a Criminal Lawyer Defend Someone They Know is Guilty?

A criminal lawyer can defend someone they know is guilty as long as they do not lie or knowingly mislead the court.

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