Erroneous expectations and misconceptions about the work of a "criminal" lawyer

Purpose: The article analyzes the typical misconceptions of clients regarding lawyers and their activities in criminal proceedings. The goal is to debunk these misconceptions and justify correct judgments about various aspects of the activities of legal advisers. Methodology: Analytical, formal-legal methods, methods of questioning and interviewing, as well as an educational approach were used. Results: Four typical misconceptions are argumentatively refuted: «A lawyer is a close friend», «he must have a bright charisma...», «we expect super-results from him», «he must use personal connections». Novelty/originality/value: The authors were among the first to summarize the opinions of citizens-principals and professional lawyers on this issue, formulated and refuted these misconceptions.