Criminal Defense

Criminal Defense Criminal Defense in Estero, FL

You have probably heard this same warning on a thousand different cop shows: If you are arrested and charged with a crime, you have the right to speak with an attorney. This is not a right anyone should take lightly. Even when you are only facing misdemeanor allegations, working with an experienced criminal defense attorney can help you secure a better outcome than if you try and handle things yourself.

Consider the most criminal charge most residents face: Drunk driving. While you may not think DUI is that big a deal, in reality you could receive a sentence of up to 6 months in county jail, even for a first offense. In addition, a DUI can lead to an automatic suspension of your driver’s license for as much as 10 months, significantly impacting your ability to work and live your life normally.

In more serious felony cases, of course, a conviction means years–or even the rest of your life–behind bars in a state prison. So when your very freedom is at stake, it is always in your best interests to engage a qualified criminal defense lawyer who understands the judicial system.

What You Need to Know Following a Criminal Arrest

Obviously, most people are arrested before they even have the opportunity to call a lawyer. But even before you are formally represented by counsel, there are steps you can take to protect your basic rights. The most important step is to invoke your right to remain silent. While you must provide the police with certain basic information, such as your name, you are never required to answer any questions asked during a criminal interrogation.

The next thing to remember is that if the police do have a warrant for your arrest, you should never attempt to flee or avoid capture. Again, if you have the chance to do so, call a lawyer before your surrender to the police. Running away will only make things worse for you and your case.

Next, following an arrest you will be arraigned. In most cases, you will be given bail. If you are able to meet the conditions of pretrial release, remember you are still under the court’s jurisdiction and must appear at any scheduled hearings on your case.

Can a Criminal Defense Attorney Get Me Off?

Every criminal case is different. Sometimes the prosecution’s evidence is not sufficient to sustain a criminal charge. But even when there is substantial evidence, that does not necessarily mean you have no options. Most criminal cases are resolved through a plea bargain. Depending on the circumstances, a plea bargain may help you avoid jail time for less-serious offenses.

At the same time, you should never feel pressured by a prosecutor into accepting a plea bargain without first speaking to a criminal defense lawyer. Indeed, you should always have an attorney present during any plea negotiations. While no defense lawyer can guarantee that they will “get you off,” they can often help you secure a better deal with the prosecution.

So if you have been charged with committing a misdemeanor or felony, contact the Law Firm today to speak with a criminal defense attorney.