You may not feel like you need a defense lawyer until you’ve officially been charged with a crime, but that’s simply not true. There are plenty of instances where it would be monumentally beneficial to connect with or even hire a defense lawyer prior to any charges being formally filed. In today’s blog, we take a closer look at why it may be so smart to hire a lawyer before you’re officially charged with a crime.
Hiring A Lawyer Before Charges Are Filed
While a matter may become more serious once criminal charges are filed, that certainly doesn’t mean that the moments that lead up to official charges are unimportant. Hiring a lawyer prior to charges being filed can be extremely helpful to your current and future self. Here’s why you should consider hiring a lawyer even if formal criminal charges have yet to be filed:
Protect Your Rights – You may think that if you have nothing to hide, then there is nothing wrong with talking to police. You are well within your right to remain silent, and this silence cannot be used as evidence to suggest that you are guilty in the court of law. A lawyer can advise when it’s wise to keep your mouth shut and when it’s appropriate to provide answers or context to a situation. Don’t let police badger you into responding to questions that they hope will help prove their case. A lawyer will help protect your rights, even if you have’t been formally charged.
Know The Processes – A lawyer will also have some inside knowledge into how police will likely attempt to proceed with questioning or the investigation into the crime. We can also take steps to help clear your name before charges or filed or position you in such a way that you are already have a solid defense plan if charges end up being officially filed.
Confidential Confidant – Maybe the police don’t have the full story, but you don’t want to share the full details with them because of how the story could get twisted. Instead of waiting for them to file formal charges, you can privately and confidentially explain your version of events to a lawyer who will not use anything you say against you. Talking with a lawyer can lift a giant weight off your shoulders, and your lawyer can provide some advice for how to proceed with a statement should this be something you both feel is beneficial for your case.
Help You Understand What You’re Up Against – Finally, a lawyer can help explain what you might be up against in the event that you eventually face formal charges. They can explain how a charge could impact your right to vote, possess a firearm, drive a car or maintain your job, all of which is important to know in the event that formal charges could cause problems for any of these aspects of your life.
So remember, you don’t need to wait until charges have been formally filed to protect yourself from trouble. Let us help you navigate the situation before and after charges are formally filed so that you can find a positive outcome. For more information, reach out to the team at Appelman Law Firm today at (952) 224-2277.
