Being charged with a crime can be a stressful experience. While there are always concerns related to the conviction, fines, and other penalties, you may also have to deal with other things in your personal life. If you have been arrested in League City, you should take steps to protect yourself. Firstly, you have the right to remain silent. You also have the right to an attorney. Instead of wondering how to take the next step, make sure to contact a League City criminal defense lawyer. Here are some details worth knowing.
Choosing a criminal defense lawyer
When it comes to legal representation, you need an attorney specializing in criminal law. The attorney should be based in the city and must have worked for clients who faced similar charges. Check the types of cases they deal with, which will help you understand their experience. For instance, there are criminal defense lawyers who only defend clients for misdemeanor charges. Choose a firm that has a pool of talented attorneys who can collaborate when required to help someone in need.
What about the public defender?
Understandably, you are worried about the cost of a criminal defense lawyer. Yes, you can decide to go for a public defender, but these lawyers are always busy and don’t have the time that many cases deserve. More importantly, many public defenders don’t have the necessary experience. When your life is at stake, don’t risk your chances.
Pleading guilty
Many people want to know if they can just plead guilty and get away with a lesser sentence. The truth is a conviction carries multiple consequences. For example, if you are fighting for your child’s custody in a fierce divorce battle and are convicted of DUI, that could impact the custody case. Don’t plead guilty until your criminal defense lawyer says so. They will look at the prosecution’s case, check the evidence, and do their research before they recommend something.
Answering police questions
You don’t have to answer the police questions without a criminal defense lawyer. Also, you can refuse to take a polygraph test. Remember, these tests are not admissible in court. Talking to the arresting officers may mean saying something that is off the mark, which may eventually mean having more charges. Ask for an attorney and ensure you remain silent.
Be honest when you engage a criminal lawyer in League City. Your attorney can only help when they know the whole picture.
