If you are facing criminal charges, the decision of whether or not to hire a lawyer is one of the most important choices you can make. The United States criminal justice system is complex and the repercussions of a criminal conviction can be significant so it may be necessary to obtain help from a legal professional. Continue reading and consult with a Stony Point, NY criminal defense attorney to discover how to know if you need representation.
If any of the following applies to your situation, you may need the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney.
You’ve been arrested or detained
Perhaps the most obvious scenario, you should hire a defense attorney if you have been arrested or detained for your alleged participation in a crime. After being arrested you may be confused or overwhelmed but it is important to understand the implications of anything you say or do. During your arrest, your attorney will advocate on your behalf, ensure your rights are protected, and help you avoid making incriminating statements.
The police have questioned you
If law enforcement begins coming around your home or work asking you questions and investigating you in relation to a crime, it may be time to consult a defense attorney. Even if no charges have been brought against you, having skilled representation may be necessary. Your lawyer can help evaluate the situation, begin building a potential defense, help you avoid self-incrimination, and make sure that the police do not cross any lines during their investigation.
Your charges are serious
If you are facing potential misdemeanor charges you may not feel pressured to obtain help from an attorney. However, a case becomes more complex the more severe the charges are. If you are arrested for a felony or for a violent, sexual, drug-related, or other serious crime, you should probably hire a lawyer. The more serious the charges the more severe the accompanying penalties will be. Procuring help from an experienced attorney can help you avoid the full extent of these consequences and argue for a reduced sentence.
The prosecution has strong evidence
If the prosecution has a strong case against you you may need to hire a criminal defense attorney. Your lawyer can help identify and exploit weaknesses in their case as well as create and implement a strong defensive strategy. A skilled attorney could poke holes in the prosecution’s case, find issues in how evidence was collected, and in general cast doubt on your guilt.
Hiring a criminal defense attorney may be necessary at any step of the legal process, even if you have not been arrested or charged. Having a lawyer on your side can be the difference between a guilty or not guilty verdict, or a life-ruining or reasonable sentence. Reach out to a skilled attorney today to discuss your case and learn more about your rights and options.
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