What Should I Do If I Haven’t Been Charged Yet For A Crime But I Believe I Will Be?
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Many people think they might get lucky and not get caught or that the police will let them off the hook. Those who believe this are fooling themselves. When someone is accused of a felony or disorderly conduct, it is very unusual for the police not to follow up. It’s only a matter of time before the police show up at your door or flash a light in your rearview mirror.
Even if the officers are only there to talk to you or ask you questions, having them show up at your home or workplace is harmful to your reputation. It would be horrible to be arrested in front of your neighbors and coworkers and transported to jail in a police car. If you’re arrested while working, you’re probably not going to get that job again. That’s why it’s important to learn and understand what you need to do if you haven’t been charged for a crime yet but believe you will be.
What Can You Do Before Being Arrested?
Contact a lawyer immediately if you think you could be a suspect and might be questioned or taken into custody. If you hire a defense attorney, they can contact the police, arrange a meeting with them, and submit a letter informing them that you have hired legal counsel. Once the police find out you have a lawyer, they can only talk to him or her. You won’t be able to be reached by the police. You will be protected and safe. A skilled, experienced defense lawyer won’t let the police talk to you and will know how to speak in your favor.
The time before charges are filed is very important because a good lawyer can sometimes get the law enforcers or prosecutor to drop the charges. A good lawyer will know how to talk about each bit of evidence, find holes in the prosecution’s case, and demonstrate to the police that their case is weak. This makes it possible to drop the case before charges are filed.
Getting a Michigan Attorney Before You Are Charged For a Crime
There are various instances where your lawyer’s evidence against an allegation can be lost or destroyed if it is not properly documented. As a result of the length of time it takes for the police to file charges, evidence in favor of the accused may be lost, modified, or destroyed. An experienced lawyer hired early in the investigation has the best chance of protecting evidence.
If you have a lawyer before being charged, he or she may be able to get you a chance to turn yourself in voluntarily if you are charged. If you do not reach an arrangement with the court before a warrant is issued, you may be arrested and imprisoned. Self-surrendering in court with your attorney significantly boosts your chances of obtaining a very low personal bond.
Don’t wait until you’ve been charged to hire a defense attorney. You may have to stay in jail for a day or longer before you can see the lawyer assigned to you by the court. Most likely, you will meet your lawyer for the first time when you are brought to trial. Court-appointed lawyers don’t get involved until after charges are filed.
Moreover, do not hire an attorney who tells you to wait and call them back if you’re charged; this leaves you left vulnerable. Even before you’re accused of a crime, the best criminal defense lawyers recognize that you need to be protected. Having a qualified lawyer on your side might accomplish a lot of things for you right away and reduce the charges you face.
Get In Touch With Experienced Michigan Defense Attorney
Goldman and Associates have successfully represented thousands of clients under investigation for possible felony and misdemeanor charges in Michigan. If you are concerned about what happens if you are arrested, call us for a free consultation or schedule an appointment today.