If you have been arrested for a crime in Miami or any of the surrounding areas is what you do is just as important as what a criminal defense lawyer can do on your behalf. A lawyer should always be retained in order to protect you but there are several other steps that you should take as well in order to minimize your chances of a negative outcome.
Of course each case depends on the unique circumstances and the charges against you but several common things will always apply in these situations. Here are several things to do or not do in order to uphold your rights and give you the best possible chance of a successful outcome in Florida`s criminal justice system.
Maintain Your Silence
You have the constitutional right to remain silent and it is one that you should exercise in any situation. You are not obligated to provide police officers with any further information about your case or your unique circumstances. Wait to speak to your lawyer and exercise your right to remain silent. Giving up information could actually make things worse for you..
Always Ask for Your Attorney
If you have been arrested and taken to the police station or put in jail make sure that the police officers have verbally heard you request to speak to your lawyer.
They are obligated to allow you to speak to your attorney and you do not have to give statements to anyone else except your attorney during this time. It is better to stay silent, except for making statements that you wish to speak to lawyer.
Do Not Ask Friends and Family for Advice
If you have been arrested or if you are facing any charges down the line people will come out of the woodwork in order to tell you want to do and not do.
While many of these people mean well and maybe trying to advise you against common mistakes, the only person who should be providing you with next steps and recommendations during this time is your criminal defense attorney.
Other people may make mistakes or advise you about information that is outdated or simply inaccurate. Your lawyer can tell you whether or not something is in your best interest and equip you with the information necessary to make an informed decision.
Make Sure You Hire a Lawyer with the Right Experience
Whether you are facing misdemeanor or felony charges the right lawyer can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case. He or she should be dedicated to resolving things in the most effective manner for you.
This does not mean forcing you to accept a plea bargain sooner rather than later so that they case is over and done with and the attorney gets paid. Your attorney should be committed to evaluating your case in full and deciding what is most appropriate for you during that specific time. Your lawyer should care about you and your future given a case like this will have such a big influence on your life down the road.
Do Not Post on Social Media
Even in the event that you are concerned that your rights were trampled during the arrest or search and seizure process do not post this information on social media.
This could be used against you and could even be seen by the police officers who may have been negligent in carrying out their own duties.
You do not need to alert police officers or anyone else about the potential weaknesses in the prosecution`s case. Rather you should allow your experience criminal defense attorney to handle this situation for you.
Evaluate All Options Carefully
As you go through the criminal justice process in Florida you may be presented with option such as to accept a plea deal in exchange for a guilty plea or a reduced sentence or separate charges.
Your attorney should be committed to explaining the best possible situation for you in each of these cases so that you can decide whether or not it’s right for you. Bear in mind that you are not obligated to take any of these options but your lawyer can help you figure out if one really makes the most sense for you.
Always Fulfill Requirements
In the event that temporary requirements have been placed on you such as a protection order for someone who alleges that you have assaulted them, make sure you comply with these terms and regulations.
It is not worth it to try to overstep the bounds and give the court further proof that you may have committed the alleged crime in the first place. It can also only serve to make your situation worse so you should always comply with these terms and requests from the outset.
Consult with Florida Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
If you have been arrested for a crime, Do not hesitate to reach out Miami criminal defense attorney.
Why you should watch out for false police reports, Learn from here: https://thehansenlawfirm.com/2016/10/12/watch-false-police-reports/
