Whether you see them coming or catch you off guard, being in the midst of criminal charges can be daunting. Knowing when you should see the assistance of a criminal defense attorney can make all the difference in preserving your rights and protecting your freedom. Let’s take a look at some of the times you should be sure to reach out to criminal attorney for assistance.
When to Call A Criminal Attorney
The truth is that there are a number of times and stages that can lead up to a criminal charge where you should call a criminal attorney. In fact, if you think you may be under investigation for a crime, contacting a criminal attorney can be one of the best steps you can take to protecting your legal rights. Some may hesitate to do so and wait to see what happens. Waiting too long to make this important call, however, can end up having adverse consequences later down the road.
During the investigation process, a criminal attorney can act as a shield against police overstepping their bounds. If the police have expressed any interest in speaking to you, it can be a big red flag. They may keep things low key and assure you that speaking to them is in your best interest, but they are well-trained in investigation tactics and will not make it clear that your answers could be held against you later on. You see, most people are aware of Miranda rights, which include the right to remain silent, but these rights are only required to be read to a person who is being taken into police custody.
It is also a good idea to contact a criminal defense attorney if the police have obtained a search warrant to investigate your property, whether it be your home, car, or computer. Law enforcement officers can obtain a search warrant should they have probable cause that you possess evidence relating to a crime. Your attorney can review the search warrant to ensure that the police only search areas explicitly authorized by the warrant. Oftentimes, however, you will not be given advance notice of the search warrant and the police will just show up to conduct the search. Ask if they will wait until your attorney can arrive to oversee the process.
If a warrant is issued for your arrest or you have been sent a notice to appear, calling a criminal attorney can help you avoid the embarrassment and inconvenience of being arrested. Instead, your attorney may be able to arrange for you to appear in court voluntarily as opposed to being arrested by law enforcement.
Criminal Defense Attorneys
When it comes to facing criminal charges or being subject to a criminal investigation, the importance of retaining dedicated criminal defense legal counsel cannot be understated. Do not wait and jeopardize your rights and your freedom. Reach out to the trusted team at Navarrete & Schwartz. We are proud to serve the residence of Midland, Texas. Contact us today.