When you are accused of a crime and will be arrested, it is easy to make a mistake. This is a high-stress situation, and you may fear your future. Unfortunately, a mistake can lead to serious issues for you and your criminal case.
Because of this, avoiding common mistakes that worsen the effects of getting arrested for many people is vital. If you know you may be arrested soon, take the following steps to make your case easier for yourself and your criminal defense lawyer.
Not Remaining Silent
One of the most important steps when you are arrested is to exercise your right to remain silent. You do not have to explain what happened to the police, especially at the scene. Anything you say can and will be used against you in court.
Instead, You can only volunteer basic information about yourself, such as your name, before seeking a lawyer. Your lawyer can then step in and protect you from police misconduct.
Discussing Your Arrest on Social Media
Part of your right to remain silent is your social media presence. If you talk about your arrest or the charges you are facing on social media, anything you can say there can be taken as evidence. Rest assured that the police are watching anything you say, out loud or online.
Contacting Your Accuser
It may be tempting to clear up any confusion or misunderstandings with the person who accused you of a crime, particularly in domestic violence cases. However, speaking with the accuser can also hurt your case.
Even if you know the accuser, keeping all discussions in the courtroom and with your lawyer as an intermediary is typically best. That can prevent further charges from being placed on you and help avoid issues affecting your case.
Acting Disrespectfully in Court
Judges demand respect, and failing to respect their position of authority can lead to serious consequences for your case, including contempt of court. That can happen even if you believe you are entirely innocent.
Because of this, it is best to act with respect throughout any court date. Let your lawyer help you prepare for these interactions before your date.
Representing Yourself
Many people think saving money on a lawyer is the best option for them. Unfortunately, it can make it difficult to avoid a conviction that hurts your future.
Because representing yourself cuts you off from many resources that a lawyer can provide, you may have a more difficult time reducing your charges or getting a dismissal of those charges. Rather than missing out on this opportunity, you can reach out to an attorney about your financial options while also still getting the legal representation you need.
Need Help After Arrest? Call Our Team
Making a mistake after getting arrested can cost you dearly. In some cases, it can even leave you waiting in jail, or you may face more serious charges than you would have otherwise. Fortunately, you can take action with an attorney’s help.
Our team at Troxell Law is here to help you deal with the aftermath of an arrest and avoid the harsh penalties that may come with your criminal case. If you are struggling to overcome these issues, simply contact our team for a consultation. We can be reached when you call or fill out our online contact form. Simply reach out to our team for a consultation. We can be reached when you call or fill out our online contact form.