If you’ve been charged with a criminal offense, it’s understandable you feel overwhelmed and stressed. But make sure you don’t sign the affidavit without consulting a criminal defense lawyer first.
Plenty of people make the mistake of speaking to the police officers in charge of the case, signing papers, and allowing police to search their house without a warrant.
Whether you’ve committed a felony, or have been charged with DWI, it’s in your best interest to hire a lawyer. Here are a few reasons why:
They Can Help Protect Your Rights
If you have been arrested for a criminal offense, the police need to read your Miranda Rights to you. Any confession obtained without the defendant being informed of their rights is considered a violation of basic human rights.
The confession obtained then becomes null and void. You have the right to remain silent, and the right to an attorney.
Hiring a criminal defense lawyer can help you protect your rights. A lawyer has immense knowledge of the law. They can help you get a better understanding of the laws contained in the Criminal Code, the Criminal Procedure Act, the Crimes Act, the Misuse of Drugs Act, the Evidence Act, the Road Traffic Act, or the Sentencing Act.
They Can Save You from Being Falsely Accused
More than 4.1 percent of individuals who are charged with a crime are innocent. But most people are hesitant to hire a criminal defense lawyer because they feel it’s a costly affair.
But once the crime has been recorded in your personal records, it can create a lot of problems. A criminal defense attorney can ensure:
You don’t get falsely accused or charged with a crime
You don’t get sent to prison when you shouldn’t be
Your DNA isn’t placed in the state police or national database
Your driving license isn’t revoked
You don’t have problems finding work
You don’t get terminated by your employer because of the offense.
Gather Evidence and Present it Properly
A criminal defense lawyer can help you gather evidence to prove your innocence. Cross-examinations are a difficult process. The prosecution is present during the examination and often interrupts with different questions.
This can become chaotic if you’re without a lawyer. A defense lawyer will help protect your rights and advise you on how to answer the questions properly.
In court, a good defense lawyer will provide legal arguments as to why the defendant should not be asked certain types of questions.
Present Your Bail Application Properly
Unfortunately, if the court refuses your bail, the application cannot be reheard unless there has been a change in your circumstances. Therefore, it’s imperative to get it right the first time.
A criminal defense lawyer can help you present and prepare your bail application properly. They will also focus on all the right issues to help you get released.
In Conclusion
A defense lawyer can help you come up with a strategic plan to appeal your case in court. They have the skills and experience to defend your case, and make sure your rights are protected.
If you’re looking for a traffic ticket attorney in Suffolk, NY, the Law Offices of Norley E. Castañeda has all the solutions you’re looking for.
Whether it’s a felony case, domestic violence charge, or a DWI, we’ve got you covered.
Make sure to contact us now to get a free evaluation for your case.