When to Talk to a Lawyer
When Should I Talk to a Lawyer?
Many clients ask us when to talk to a lawyer for the best legal outcomes for themselves. The best time to talk with a lawyer is before an arrest happens. If you think trouble is starting, such as the police investigating you or talking to your friends, family, and workplace, you need to act. It is a good idea to have an attorney already selected and ready to serve on your behalf. However, many scenarios cannot be foreseen, such as an accident or being pulled over for a DUI or other traffic stop that escalates.
Benefits to consulting with a lawyer as soon as possible are many, but to name a few, it is important for:
- Evidence preservation
- Communicating with the police
- Communicating with the prosecutor
- Negotiating non-arrest or a plea deal
- Avoiding the pitfalls of collateral consequences, like driver’s license suspensions
The attorneys at Canan Law are experienced with police arrests and investigations. We know the best time to help our client is as early as possible.
Ultimately, you need to contact a lawyer as soon as you can when you suspect being investigated, and especially after an arrest.
Remaining Silent Will Help You
You have a right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself — the police are hoping for anything you say to be used against you. Sometimes it is appropriate to give a statement, but many times clients get themselves further into trouble when interviewed by experienced and trained law enforcement officers. Even the most well-intentioned statement can be taken out of context, and the chances of you talking your way out of an arrest by yourself is unlikely. It is essential not to discuss your case with friends or family, or even with the police, before consulting with an attorney.
Am I Going to Jail?
Depending on the charges involved, there is a chance you may be arrested and held in jail. If this happens, you should obey any police commands, but do not discuss anything else. Just ask to speak with your attorney until it is granted. Once you and your attorney can talk together, they can provide you with a more precise outlook about bail and potential jail time and fight to keep your freedom.
Know How to Contact Your Lawyer
Have a lawyer’s number in your cellphone at all times. It can also be helpful to memorize the number for a time of need. If arrested, unlike what you may have seen on TV, most police stations will not help you locate the number of your attorney. In an emergency, it can be helpful to call someone you know and ask them to reach out to your lawyer right away.
Start Your Smart Criminal Defense Today
Life does not always go as planned. If you are facing criminal charges, we can help. We are pleased to offer free consultations on criminal law cases at our St. Augustine office.
Contact us at (904) 849-2266 or fill out our online form to set up an appointment. When you work with the team at Canan Law, you are putting yourself into trusted hands.
Our legal team specializes in a wide variety of practices and we are ready to fight & advocate on your behalf.
Why You Need A Criminal Law Attorney
Utilizing a specialized criminal law attorney can benefit you in numerous ways, including but not limited to:
- Clear explanations about your crime and the process you will go through, such as a jury trial.
- Building your case by speaking to witnesses, gathering evidence, and utilizing experts. We have a network of experts to help recreate crime scenes, analyze evidence, and disprove claims.
- Handling the proper paperwork and communicating with all other parties involved. Many prosecutor offices are not interested in speaking with the criminal defendant.
- Keep things moving correctly toward the best outcome in court. Many times, our lawyers can appear in court for you, so you don’t have to take time off work.
- Working to clear your reputation. This can be an immense help in avoiding losing your job or facing child custody and visitation issues.
- Strategizing for minimal fines and sentences to keep you out of jail.
- Vast understanding of Florida criminal law and nuances that may help your case. Civilians often do not know enough about the law to help prove their side of the case.