What to Do if You Are Facing Criminal Charges
If you face criminal charges of any kind, it is obviously a serious matter that can leave you at a loss regarding how best to proceed. While every criminal charge is utterly unique to the circumstances involved, several essential guidelines nearly universally apply. Because a conviction can derail your future, it is in your best interest to keep your wits about you and proceed with caution.
Invoke Your Right to Remain Silent
One of the most important rights we have is our Fifth Amendment right to remain silent, which means you cannot be forced to testify against, or in other words, incriminate yourself. You are well-advised to invoke this right if facing criminal charges. The best path forward is to share your name and your intention to exercise your right to remain silent with the arresting officer after being arrested. Never admit to any of the following:
To having committed a crime
To having been involved in the commission of a crime
To associating with known criminals
Even if you believe you are guilty as charged, wait until after you have consulted with an experienced criminal defense lawyer before sharing any information with an officer of the court.
Mind Your P’s and Q’s
Within 72 hours of your arrest, you must either be charged with a crime or be released. If you are charged, you will attend a hearing where your charges will be read, and you will likely be given the opportunity to post bail. Upon your release, it is critical that you remain on your best behavior and avoid all illegal activity and all activities that might be considered suspicious. Not to do so can seriously harm your case (especially if the charge you face is serious).
Call an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer Sooner Rather than Later
If you are facing a criminal charge, bringing your most robust defense is critical. In fact, a conviction can lead not only to significant fines and penalties (such as jail time) but also to dramatic repercussions that affect all of the following:
Your ability to rent a home or apartment
Your ability to get a loan (especially for the purpose of pursuing higher education)
Your ability to find a job
Your professional licensure
Because the stakes are so high, consulting with an experienced criminal defense lawyer sooner rather than later is paramount. Your lawyer will help ensure that you have a solid defense strategy that protects your rights and supports your case’s most favorable resolution.
Call an Experienced Killeen Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
If you face criminal charges, now is not the time to drag your feet and weigh your options. It would be best if you had a dedicated criminal defense lawyer on your side, and Brett Pritchard at The Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard in Killeen, Texas, is here to help. Mr. Pritchard has an expansive record of successfully protecting the rights of clients like you and is on your side. For more information, please contact us online or call us at 254-501-4040 today.