What to Do When Facing Criminal Charges

Protecting Yourself When Facing Criminal Charges

Being charged with a crime is a frightening experience that can affect every aspect of your life. The decisions you make in the hours and days following an arrest can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

Your Constitutional Rights

The moment you are arrested, you have important rights that must be respected:

• Right to remain silent - You do not have to answer questions beyond basic identification
• Right to an attorney - You can have a lawyer present during any questioning
• Right against unreasonable searches - Police generally need a warrant to search your property

Immediate Steps to Take

If you've been arrested or charged with a crime:

1. Exercise your right to remain silent
2. Request an attorney immediately
3. Do not consent to searches without a warrant
4. Do not discuss your case with anyone except your lawyer
5. Document everything you remember about the arrest

What you say and do in the first 24 hours after an arrest can make or break your case. Always consult with an attorney before making any statements.

Building Your Defense

A strong criminal defense starts with a thorough investigation of the facts, examination of police procedures, and identification of any constitutional violations. Our criminal defense attorneys have the experience to protect your rights at every stage.