When to Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney
If you have been arrested or are under investigation for a crime, you may be wondering if you need to hire a criminal defense attorney. The answer is not always clear cut, but there are some general guidelines you can follow.
It is important to keep in mind that an attorney is bound by confidentiality, so even if you just want to “get a feel” for what an attorney would say about your case, you should still consult with one. However, there are some circumstances in which it is definitely advisable to hire an attorney, which we will discuss below.
When You Have Been Arrested
If you have already been arrested, it is almost always in your best interest to hire an attorney as soon as possible. An experienced criminal defense attorney will be able to review the evidence against you and advise you on the best course of action moving forward. They can also negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf and, in some cases, get charges reduced or dismissed altogether.
When You Are Under Investigation
If you are under investigation for a crime, it is important to consult with an attorney before speaking to law enforcement. Remember, anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help protect your rights and ensure that you are not inadvertently incriminating yourself.
When the Stakes Are High
If the stakes are high—for example, if you are facing a lengthy prison sentence—it is definitely worth your while to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney. In these cases, an attorney can often get charges reduced or dismissed altogether by negotiating with prosecutors or raising doubts about the prosecution’s case in front of a judge or jury.
If you have been arrested or are under investigation for a crime, the question of whether or not to hire a criminal defense attorney is not always an easy one to answer. However, there are some general guidelines you can follow. If you have already been arrested, it is almost always in your best interest to hire an attorney as soon as possible. If you are under investigation for a crime, it is important to consult with an attorney before speaking to law enforcement. And finally, if the stakes are high—for example, if you are facing a lengthy prison sentence—it is definitely worth your while to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help protect your rights and get charges reduced or dismissed altogether.
