2024 in Review: Key Lessons from This Year’s Criminal Cases

As we close out 2024, it’s a good time to reflect on the cases we handled, our successes, and the lessons we learned throughout the year. This year, our firm had the privilege of representing hundreds of clients facing serious criminal charges, and we were able to achieve outcomes that changed lives. Here are some key takeaways from the cases we handled this year, along with insights for those who may face legal challenges in 2025.

Notable Cases and Success Stories

This year, our firm closed more than 400 cases, ranging from DUIs to serious felonies, including murder. While every case is unique, a few stand out as examples of the importance of dedicated legal representation:

DUI Dismissal:

One of our clients faced a DUI charge after being arrested at a holiday checkpoint. During our defense investigation, we secured body cam footage from half a dozen police officers that had not been initially provided during the required discovery process. We identified and used a procedural error that led to the dismissal of the case before trial.
The Lesson: Even cases that seem straightforward can hinge on small technical details. Having a legal team that knows how to uncover these details is critical.

Reduced Jail Sentence:

A young client was charged with leaving the scene of an accident that tragically resulted in the death of a pedestrian. This charge carried a mandatory prison sentence of 5 to 20 years. After the client pleaded guilty, our team focused on gathering strong mitigating evidence to show that this was a one-time accident and that the client had no history of criminal behavior or tendencies suggesting future criminal activity. During a lengthy sentencing hearing, we presented this evidence in detail. As a result, the judge sentenced our client to 2 years in prison—far less than the 5 years recommended by the prosecution—recognizing the client’s unique circumstances.

Common Mistakes Clients Made

In reviewing this year’s cases, we noticed several avoidable mistakes that clients made before hiring our firm, which hurt their cases in the long run:

Speaking to police without legal counsel present

Many people don’t realize how easily their words can be used against them. Police officers are trained to get individuals to talk, and some know exactly how to frame questions in ways that make it harder to challenge statements later in court.

Failing to act quickly

Too often, people wait to hire us until after important deadlines have passed. Our case statistics show that clients who hire us at the start of their legal proceedings consistently achieve much better outcomes than those who bring us in later. Starting early allows our team the time and opportunity to build the strongest possible defense.

Our Commitment to Justice in 2024 and beyond

This year, our team continued to grow and serve the community in meaningful ways:

Case Volume

We successfully resolved more than 400 cases, with many resulting in reduced charges, dismissals, or favorable outcomes.

DUI Results

We closed more than 50 DUI cases this year, achieving favorable outcomes in over 92% of them.

Community Involvement

Alongside our legal work, we made it a priority to give back to our community by participating in numerous events throughout the year. We capped it off with our 2nd annual Cocktails for a Cause, where we brought together the legal community to collect dozens of toys for families in need across the Gulf Coast. It’s an honor to support our community both in and out of the courtroom.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we enter the new year, we anticipate new legal challenges for our clients in Mississippi, including tougher prosecutions and stricter penalties for those charged with crimes. At McCormick Lawrence, our commitment remains the same—we’re ready to adapt our strategies to best serve our clients and fight for their rights.

If you or someone you know is facing a legal issue, don’t wait. Contact attorneys Cameron McCormick and Bay Lawrence today. Let us help you start 2025 with the strong defense you deserve.