Do I Need a Defense Lawyer When I’m Charged With a Crime? Absolutely! Here’s why…
Have you been arrested and accused of a crime in Miami-Dade or Palm Beach County? How you react after your arrest can have a significant impact on your case, so it is critical that you understand your options and proceed with caution. Read on to learn more about the role that a defense lawyer plays and how your case could be damaged without one.
What Next? Handling an Arrest
As soon as you have been arrested, it is strongly recommended that you consult with an experienced Miami-Dade criminal defense lawyer. You have the right to do so and getting advice during this time period is extremely beneficial. Your attorney can also learn more about what you have been charged with so that you are clear about next steps. Without some insight, it can be confusing and overwhelming to confront these issues on your own.
Should I Talk to the Police?
Remember that police officer are trained to get as much information as possible so that a case can proceed on to prosecution. This means that they are well-versed in how to obtain as much evidence as possible, including statements you might make.
The authorities might tell you that you’re doing yourself a favor by cooperating with them and sharing your side of the story, but you also run the risk of incriminating yourself or saying something unintentionally. These statements could be used to convict you of the crime in question or it could open the door for investigators to evaluate other potential crimes, so you should tread carefully. The best thing to do in this situation is to wait to answer any questions until your attorney is present.
How Can a Defense Lawyer Help?
Aside from providing you with some insight about what to expect, an experienced Miami-Dade criminal defense attorney can also play one or more of the following roles:
- Investigator: Your attorney will look into the crime in question as well as the circumstances of your arrest. As someone not familiar with the law, you might not be aware of potential issues that could compromise the legality of your arrest. Make sure you retain an attorney who will explore all possible avenues to fight for you in court.
- Negotiator: Depending on your past criminal history and other issues, your attorney might work directly with the prosecutor to determine alternative outcomes for your case. Having someone on your side working for this can be very helpful for minimizing or eliminating penalties you could face down the line.
- Representative: Your attorney know the customs and rules of the local courtroom and knows how to work within them to zealously represent your concerns. Going without an experienced attorney or trying to represent yourself could mean making a faux pas that violates courtroom rules or aggravates the judge. Hire an attorney who knows how to manage your case in court.
If you have already been charged with a crime in Miami-Dade, get the help you need from a qualified criminal defense attorney.