The prospect of facing criminal charges is, without a question, frightening and trying. The majority of those facing first-time charges are unsure of how to proceed. The measures you take after being arrested, imprisoned, or facing criminal accusations are crucial since they might determine the final result of your case. Hiring the top criminal lawyer you can find will strengthen your defense and help you tactically navigate the issue, protecting your interests.
Not seeking legal help
Delaying or not seeking competent legal help is one of the most common mistakes people make when confronted with criminal accusations. The absence of a criminal defense lawyer can put you at greater risk of being charged and sentenced for something you didn’t do. You must retain the services of the most qualified defense attorney in your area since everyone has the right to legal protection. As this renowned Brisbane criminal lawyer says, a professional legal representative will defend your rights and interests, and they will explain your options if you are the subject of an investigation or have been charged. Of course, the attorney you choose must have a history of success and familiarity with cases like yours. They will bring a wide range of expertise to the table, allowing them to fully address your concerns and handle your case.
Talking to police without an attorney
People usually make the mistake of talking to police officers without their legal representatives. Your case can be in danger if you speak out without first seeing a lawyer or having a respectable criminal defense attorney at your side. They will advise you on what to speak and when to stay quiet to protect your rights and position in the case.
Self-incrimination
Refraining from incriminating oneself does not indicate guilt, but rather serves as a protection. If your case proceeds to trial, a specific jury instruction will state that they are not to infer any negative information about your guilt based on the fact that you chose to stay silent. Whatever you say, whether innocent or not, may and will be used against you in court. So, you should not speak with police enforcement unless your lawyer is there. When cooperating with law enforcement during an investigation, it is essential to adhere to their advice so as not to incriminate yourself.
Sharing on social media
The consequences of one’s online actions are often ignored. But remember that you should never bring your case on Facebook, Instagram, or any other social media site. Social media posts have the power to be used as evidence in legal proceedings. Think about what you post, as almost anything can be used against you. Also, adjusting privacy settings will not give you absolute security, as these are quite dynamic. Checking into places or publishing images can unintentionally reveal your presence or actions, which could hurt your case. During this time, you should always think twice before you publish anything personal online.
Contacting potential witnesses
If someone can testify as a witness in a trial, it’s best to avoid communicating with them at all costs. If you talk to them, you might face extra charges, as the court can think you have tried to influence their testimony. This can lead to charges of witness tampering in addition to the underlying offenses. Class A misdemeanor witness tampering carries a maximum sentence of nine months in jail. So, don’t risk this, and avoid communication with potential witnesses.
Getting rid of things
You can forget about expecting privacy the second you toss anything into the trash outside of your house. If the police check the garbage, they may find evidence that can help them with your case. Also, you shouldn’t get rid of any paper documents that might be relevant to the charges against you. There is a criminal penalty for tampering with evidence. You must still retain any potentially damning records you have.
Ignoring to understand the charges
You must understand the accusations while facing criminal charges to prevent severe repercussions. There are varying degrees of seriousness and penalties associated with the charges, which range from misdemeanors to felonies, infractions, and violations. If you want to fight the prosecution’s evidence, you need to know what the offense was. If you choose to disregard charges, you may lose out on chances to defend yourself, get a favorable plea agreement, or challenge your conviction. Also, you should consult with an experienced defense attorney if you are facing criminal accusations, as they will explain everything and protect your freedom and rights.
Not preserving evidence
Evidence plays a key role in determining guilt or innocence. Physical or verbal evidence is equally acceptable as long as it meets the criteria of being relevant, admissible, and trustworthy. Weapons, fingerprints or DNA, witness accounts, and electronic health data are all examples of evidence. Without adequate preservation, it can be destroyed, lost, or changed, which can undermine the prosecution’s or defense’s case and impact the result of the trial. This is why it is important to collect and secure the evidence, together with proper labeling and documentation.
Talking with your family and friends about the case
Don’t tell your family and friends the specifics of your case since doing so might expose confidential information that can harm you. People can unintentionally divulge your information to someone else, who may be against you. If you value your privacy, you should not tell anybody about your situation. Rather, look for ways to cope with this stressful event, such as through hobbies, a support group, or a therapist.
Lying to your attorney
If you want the best possible result, you must be honest with your attorney. Your credibility and the rapport you have with them can be put at risk if you lie, and you can also face more charges and fines. You can build trust by being completely transparent about your case, listening to your attorney’s advice, and keeping them updated on developments.
As long as you take wise steps and behave honestly, you have some control over your case. However, many things can go completely wrong if you make some of the mistakes we have outlined in this article. So, consult your lawyer and follow their advice to help get out of this stressful situation as soon as possible.