Criminal defense attorneys can help defendants who have been charged with a crime. Criminal defense attorneys understand criminal law and can review the following aspects of the criminal case 1) ensure all of the evidence against the defendant was legally obtain; 2) hire experts to assess the evidence including ballistic experts, private investigators and polygraphist; 3) interview all parties involved in the crime and identify any inconsistent testimony or exaggerations; 4) hire expert witnesses to testify for the defense; and 5) negotiate minimum penalties. Suspects arrested and charged with a crime have the legal right to counsel. If suspects cannot afford counsel, the state or the government will assign them counsel.