We understand that when you face criminal charges, things may seem bleak, and it’s easy to feel helpless. However, you should know that your case is far from being decided.
Every step you take matters when your freedom is at stake. Your actions and words during the early stages of your case will affect its eventual outcome, so a strategic attitude is crucial.
No one ever wants to be accused of a crime and whether you’re guilty or not is up to a court of law to decide. While there are plenty of articles out there telling you what you should do if you’re or someone you know has been charged with a crime, make sure you’re following the advice of a criminal defense attorney, and you don’t make the following costly mistakes.
#1. Talking to the Police
When you’re a suspect, the police aren’t talking to you to prove your innocence or help you. They’re there to get an admission of guilt. Failing to exercise your right to remain silent, saying the wrong thing to the authorities, or inadvertently incriminating yourself are mistakes that can be extremely difficult to overcome.
Here are some crucial things to keep in mind if you get arrested:
- Invoke your right to remain silent and your right to counsel right away. The police can use anything you say against you. They can lie, twist your words, or take what you say out of context. No matter how innocent or intelligent you are, talking to the police when you’re under criminal investigation is a big mistake.
- Don’t comment on what they’re saying. Don’t answer their questions. Don’t say anything to anyone but your lawyer.
- The police might ask you to come to the station. They might want to talk to you at your office or home. If this happens, politely decline their invitation and tell them that you’ll get back to them after speaking to your lawyer.
#2. Running Away
If police officers approach or arrest you, don’t run away or try to resist arrest. Running away will only worsen the situation and potentially saddle you with extra charges. Don’t argue, cooperate with them, invoke your right to remain silent, and get in touch with a lawyer as soon as possible.
If you have plans to travel for work or go on vacation outside the state, it’s best to reconsider your plans. If they can’t be postponed, talk to your attorney. Don’t attempt to leave the state to run away from your charges because it won’t work. You’ll only end up with a warrant for your arrest. More importantly, fleeing can be construed as a sign of guilt.
#3. Missing a Court Date
Every court date is important, and you should never miss one. You won’t set a good standard if you’re constantly late or if you don’t show up at all. Skipping out on court dates indicates resistance and can adversely affect your case. It can also trigger the presiding judge to issue a bench warrant.
If there are circumstances beyond your control that might force you to skip a date, consult your lawyer immediately. They’ll help you provide documentation that’ll prove such extraordinary circumstances so you can be validly excused.
#4. Discussing the Case with Your Family and Friends
It’s understandable if you want to talk about what you’re going through with your spouse, parents, or friends. However, you should keep the conversations about the case to a minimum, and only with your trusted confidantes. After all, you don’t know if they’ll get interviewed by the police or get called in by the prosecution as a witness in court.
Private conversations about the case aren’t really private. They can backfire on you. It’s safer to avoid these conversations altogether and stick to talking to your lawyer.
#5. Using Social Media
Even if you haven’t been arrested or charged yet, refrain from posting online about the accusations against you. Let all your social media profiles stay quiet. Anything you post during the investigation can be used against you — even content that’s not related to the case. Your status updates, tweets, photos, and posts can be taken out of context and affect authorities’ perception of your character.
Even previous posts aren’t safe, so check your privacy settings and ensure that your profiles aren’t visible to the public. Don’t delete anything without consulting your lawyer first.
#6. Representing Yourself
Even when you’re innocent, representing yourself in a legal proceeding is just a recipe for disaster. Presenting a successful defense requires extensive experience with the criminal justice system and a rigorous understanding of the law. Working with a capable and experienced defense lawyer is your best shot at getting a favorable outcome for your case.
Facing Criminal Charges in Maryland? Contact Jeremy Widder Law
The best defense is a good offense. Therefore, as soon as there is an accusation of a severe criminal charge, it is crucial that you have an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side. Select someone who is knowledgeable in your specific charge and defense.
Jeremy Widder Law is a Maryland-based legal firm specializing in protective orders and minor offenses, substance-related offenses, property crimes and non-violent felonies, as well as major offenses and violent felonies.
Getting charged with a crime can be scary. You want someone who will listen and be your advocate. We are committed to walking with you from start to finish and giving your unique case the attention it deserves. Contact Jeremy Widder Law today.
