It’s not an event that one would ever want to consider too deeply but, unfortunately, there comes a time in many a life where you might find yourself on the wrong side of the law. When accused, wrongfully or otherwise, you don’t want to leave your fate up to chance. You need to know the elements of affording yourself the best legal protections you can.
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Should you use your right to remain silent?
One of the most important facts an officer will often share is that you have the right to remain silent. If you are being stopped by the police, rather than detained, staying entirely silent is not always the right choice. However, after the arrest, you should inform them of the fact that you’re
exercising your right to remain silent and waiting for your legal counsel.
Which attorney do you take?
In the justice system, if you don’t have an attorney of your own, then a public defender will be assigned to you. This is to offer some form of competent legal defense to anyone and everyone. However, while there are competent public defenders, they also usually come with large caseloads outside of your case and not as much time to spend on you as they would like. As such, it’s always wise to prepare financially to go with a private lawyer.
Choosing a lawyer
You want to ensure that you have the opportunity to research the different options available to you when it comes to your lawyer. When researching firms like Sitkoff & Hanrahan, LLP, make sure that you look at the areas of law they serve in, as well as any testimonials or records they have on cases they have managed in the past. Having a conversation about your case and getting an idea of their strategy can help you better decide, too.
Mind your etiquette
Your posture, your choice of language, and how you carry yourself shouldn’t affect your ability to represent yourself well before the court. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. For that reason, it’s a good idea to follow the tips from sites like ABA Journal and to make sure that your appearance is kept up to standard. Good grooming and fitting clothing can help you make a better first impression, and it’s important to maintain self-control and good behavior, even when outbursts can be tempting due to the emotional nature of being accused of a crime.
Follow the plan
Your lawyer is likely to present plans on how to go with the trial ahead. Sometimes, their plan might not involve laying out all of the facts or allowing you to give the truths that might seem necessary and evident to you. It’s important to try and stick to your attorney’s plan, once you have agreed with it. Any improvisations can end up jeopardizing your chance of the outcome you want.
If you are put under arrest, it’s important not to panic or, really, to do much of anything without an attorney present.