Facing criminal charges can be an incredibly stressful and overwhelming experience. What you do and do not do during this critical time can have a significant impact on your case. To give yourself the best chance of a good outcome, it’s essential to avoid common mistakes that could harm your case.
Knowing what can damage your case helps you help your attorney, especially if a mistake gives the prosecution what they need to convict you. Avoiding these mistakes can better protect your rights.
How to Avoid Mistakes that Can Ruin Your Criminal Defense
Some mistakes may seem like common sense, but it’s understandable that you might make some after an arrest. Even if you’ve been arrested before, dealing with law enforcement and the possible consequences of a conviction can be upsetting. Do your best to stay calm and follow these guidelines.
Find an Experienced Dallas Criminal Defense Attorney
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is not seeking the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney in Dallas. A skilled attorney understands the local legal landscape, has knowledge of the courts and prosecutors, and can build a strong defense strategy tailored to your case.
Attempting to navigate the complex legal system on your own can be detrimental to your defense. If you can afford a lawyer, you shouldn’t just settle for whomever the court appoints you. You also shouldn’t be looking for the cheapest lawyer you can find. Look for the best quality lawyer you can afford. And finally, criminal defense is complicated and full of pitfalls. Look for someone with experience handling cases like yours.
Don’t Talk to Authorities Without Legal Counsel
Another common mistake is talking to law enforcement or prosecutors without talking to an attorney first and having them present for any statements you may make. Exercise your Fifth Amendment rights.
Anything you say can be used against you, and without proper legal guidance, you may unintentionally provide information that could be damaging to your case. Even if you think your interviews are over and police are just being friendly, you need to exercise caution. Avoid small talk, even if it feels rude. It’s crucial to exercise your right to remain silent until you have consulted with your defense attorney.
Keep Track of Any Possible Piece of Evidence
Preserving evidence is crucial when building a strong defense. Failing to document or protect evidence related to your case can weaken your position. It’s essential to gather and preserve any relevant documents, photographs, texts, recordings, or other forms of evidence that could support your defense. You might think having evidence automatically incriminates you, but a skilled defense attorney will know how to legally suppress anything unrelated to your arrest.
Don’t Ignore Any Legal Notices Or Requests
Ignoring your case will not make it go away. You are making a huge mistake if you think leaving it alone will get the matter dropped. Your defense attorney might be able to keep your case from being filed or get it thrown out, but only if you get them involved as early as possible. If you wait until you have a court setting, the court may give you additional time to hire a lawyer, but by then, you’ve probably already missed a number of opportunities to handle your case properly.
Do Not Discuss Your Case Publicly or on Social Media
As tempting as it is to share your story or vent to anyone who will listen, engaging in discussions about your case on social media or with anyone but your lawyer can hurt your defense. Prosecutors may monitor your online activity. People you talk to may repeat what you’ve said.
Even with the best intentions, their gossip may end up hurting you in a trial. Remember, any incriminating statements you make can be used against you. There’s no more harmful evidence than what comes out of your own mouth, so protect yourself by not discussing your case with anyone but your lawyer (and their team).
What Should I Do After I Get Arrested?
The most important thing after you get arrested for a criminal charge is not to panic. You might feel like the situation is hopeless, but with the help of a skilled defense attorney, you can find your footing again.
- Stay quiet and ask for an attorney. You should answer questions about your name, but don’t say anything else. Don’t be rude or pushy, and firmly ask for an attorney. If you haven’t hired a lawyer, call one once you are released.
- Don’t resist arrest, even if you think it is unfair. Police may tack additional charges onto whatever you’re accused of.
- Keep track of what happened. Remembering the details is crucial — you need to explain to your attorney what transpired so that they can check the official report for any differences. This could lead to a defense to get charges dropped or reduced.
Remember, your attorney is fighting for your best interest. If you’ve been wrongfully charged with a crime, your attorney is working to help you. Follow their advice, and help them help you build a strong defense.
Why Should I Hire Mike Howard?
When you’re facing a criminal charge in Dallas, you need a skilled legal advocate to represent you. Attorney Mike Howard has the skills and track record to help you fight your charges. He takes a client-centered approach, making sure to listen to your needs to find the best legal option in your case. He does not back down from a challenge, and he has earned a reputation for helping people in Dallas get the results they deserve.
Contact a Dallas Criminal Defense Lawyer Now
When facing criminal charges in Dallas, avoiding common mistakes is crucial to protecting your rights and getting the best possible outcome. By hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney, exercising your right to remain silent, preserving evidence, acting without delay, and refraining from talking about your case (other than to your lawyer), you can significantly strengthen your defense. Remember, every decision you make during this process matters, so consult with your attorney at every step to ensure you’re taking the best course of action.
We partner with you to ensure that you understand the legal process and your options. Most importantly, we customize a plan to take away your anxiety and get you back to living your life. If you want to learn more or begin to discuss your case with our team, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Call 214-296-2221.
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