Understanding your constitutional rights is critical from the moment of arrest. The Fifth Amendment protects you from self-incrimination, while the Sixth Amendment guarantees your right to legal counsel. You have the absolute right to remain silent and to request an attorney before answering any questions.

To invoke these rights, clearly state: "I am invoking my right to remain silent" and "I want to speak with an attorney." Police must stop questioning you once you make these requests. Law enforcement cannot use your decision to invoke constitutional rights against you in court, as exercising these protections is not evidence of guilt.

Many people make damaging statements to police believing they can talk their way out of trouble. Even innocent explanations can be misinterpreted or used against you. Having an attorney present during police questioning protects you from saying something that could harm your defense.

The period before your initial court appearance is crucial for building your defense strategy. An experienced criminal defense attorney can immediately begin investigating your case, challenging illegal searches or arrests, and protecting your rights throughout the legal process. Don't wait to contact our defense lawyers as soon as possible after arrest.

Yes, You Need a Skilled Criminal Defense Lawyer Even if Your Innocent

If you are innocent of the charge levied against you or if the prosecution is overreaching, it is in your best interest to take a proactive approach. If you’ve been arrested, the police are building a case against you, and choosing not to mount a defense leaves you very vulnerable to extremely negative results. These can include time behind bars and social consequences that follow you into your future. 

It’s Important to See the Big Picture When It Comes to Plea Deals

The ultimate goal is having the charge against you dropped altogether. If this is not an option, however, a plea deal that allows you to avoid jail time can be very inviting. It is important, however, to have a thorough understanding of what the plea deal in question entails.

In some instances, a plea deal can be an advantageous claim resolution. In others, however, it may not be much of a deal at all. Considering the plea deal in the context of your unique case is key, and a focused criminal defense lawyer can help you with that. 

When You Accept a Plea Deal

If you are considering accepting a plea deal, it’s important to remember that you are admitting guilt to the underlying charge, which may have been reduced by the deal. This means that the conviction will be part of your permanent record, which is a matter of public information. 

Determining whether or not to accept a plea deal comes down to balancing relevant factors that include all the following:

• The strength of your defense
• How the pros and cons of the deal stack up
• The strength of the prosecution’s case against you
• The available evidence and its potential impact on the outcome of your case

Your proactive criminal defense attorney will help you carefully consider your options from every angle, and this can help you make the right choices for you.

The Social Consequences

In addition to the legal fines and penalties you will face if you are convicted of a crime, there are the social consequences to consider. These can have lasting implications and include all the following:

• A tarnished reputation
• Difficulty finding a job or renting a place to live
• Difficulty being approved for a home loan
• Losses related to your professional licensure
• Fewer opportunities when it comes to furthering your education
• A loss of rights that can include the right to possess a firearm