If you’ve been involved in legal trouble, you’re likely stressed, overwhelmed and confused about what your next step should be. Where do you go from here? The best answer for you may be hiring a criminal law defense attorney who can guide you through this process, protect your rights and support you throughout this situation. It’s essential that you recognize when it’s time to solve your legal complications with the help of a top criminal attorney. Here are some of the signs that point in the direction of hiring the best criminal attorney in Anne Arundel County.
You’ve Been Arrested
If you’ve been taken into police custody for a crime, a criminal defense attorney could make a big difference in helping you sort out your legal complications. You must remember that being arrested for a crime is not the same as being charged with a crime. There is a good chance you will be charged eventually, and if that’s the case, then a criminal attorney will lead you through your options. When you’re arrested, police officers are required to read you your Miranda Rights, including that you have the right to remain silent. You also have the right to an attorney, something you should take advantage of. It’s in your best interest to refrain from answering any questions without your attorney present. This way, you won’t risk compromising your case in the event it goes to trial.
Police Have Taken You in for Questioning
Police want to take you in for questioning if you’re the subject of an investigation. They may just need some information from you, or they may feel you were involved in a crime. If the questions seem intrusive, you have the right to speak with an attorney PRIOR to questioning. It’s a good idea to speak with an attorney BEFORE going in and speaking with the police. Anything you say can and WILL be used against you. The police may pretend to be your friends, but when investigating a crime EVERYONE is a suspect – including you. You should not put yourself in a bad position by agreeing to speak with the police without first speaking to an attorney for legal guidance. Having an attorney by your side can prevent the police from coaxing you into saying something that may incriminate you.
Police Arrive at Your Home or Work
During the course of an investigation, police may show up at your home or workplace to ask questions. In this instance, you should call a criminal lawyer at once, so that they can ensure the police are following all laws. While this may be an embarrassing and intimidating ordeal, you need to remember your rights. The police are not allowed by law to search your home without a warrant. You can refuse to let them search your home if they don’t produce a warrant, and you won’t get in trouble. Another tip from top criminal defense attorneys is that if police tell you calling an attorney will worsen your situation, this is simply not true.
You’re Facing Charges
Whether it’s a low-level crime or a felony, if you’re facing charges, you absolutely must hire a criminal defense attorney to make sure you aren’t taken advantage of. You need and deserve the protection and guidance that comes with competent criminal defense lawyers. When you hire an attorney, you also increase your chances of getting a lesser sentence or having the charges dropped all together. Your defense attorney will come up with a plan to move forward through the legal process. If you want to negotiate a plea bargain, they will help you with that, too, explaining all the steps along the way. While you will have the option of a public defender, it’s better if you can hire your own lawyer for higher-quality representation and results.
If you’re in legal trouble, call the trusted criminal defense attorneys at Ortega Law, LLC, today for advice and guidance on how to move forward with the legal process.