What is the primary responsibility of a defense attorney?

The primary responsibility of a defense attorney is to represent the accused, regardless of their guilt. This role is rooted in the fundamental principles of the legal system, which uphold the right to a fair trial and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. A defense attorney's primary duty is to advocate on behalf of their client, ensuring that their legal rights are protected throughout the judicial process.

This representation encompasses various responsibilities, such as investigating the facts of the case, gathering evidence, negotiating plea deals, and providing a robust defense during trial. The attorney must zealously defend their client’s interests and work to challenge the prosecution's case, regardless of the client’s actual guilt. This is essential to maintaining the integrity of the judicial system and ensuring that everyone receives equitable treatment under the law.

The other options misinterpret or overlook the defense attorney's critical role; for instance, a focus on securing a conviction contradicts the defendant's rights, acting on behalf of the state is contrary to the defense's purpose, and legal advice alone does not encompass the full scope of representation expected of a defense attorney.