When you're facing a criminal charge, you want to do everything you can to get the case resolved as quickly as possible. This eagerness can sometimes cause individuals to do more harm than good, particularly when it comes to their attorney. Make sure you aren't working against your attorney. Here are just some of the things you can do to avoid this.
Be Honest
The main thing your attorney needs is your honesty. There is a saying that simply states that anything done in the dark will soon come to light. This statement couldn't be any truer than in the court of law. Whether you're guilty or innocent has little importance; an attorney is more interested in you telling them the facts of what happened. When you aren't honest, your attorney can't prepare a sufficient defense. With a poor defense you are more likely to be blindsided in court and ultimately lose your case. Be upfront and honest about every detail.
Be Available
Attorneys can handle many aspects of a case without input from their client, but there are situations in which direct input is necessary from both an ethical and legal standpoint. One example of this is plea deals. Prosecutors sometimes offer a guarantee of a reduced sentence in lieu of trial. However, even if the attorney believes the deal is a good option, they can't accept it without speaking with you. In some cases, failure to respond within a certain window can void the offer. It's important that you be available whenever your attorney needs to speak with you.
Be Quiet
There are few things more detrimental than a moving tongue. Do your attorney, and most importantly, yourself, a favor by keeping quiet. Anything you say can and will be used against you, even if you aren't making these statements to law enforcement. Discussing your case with even close friends or family is never a good idea.
The things you say can easily be misconstrued and shared with the wrong person. When it comes to discussing your case, all conversations should only involve the attorney and yourself. Only share information that you have cleared with your attorney.
The more you work with your attorney, the faster your case can progress and the more likely you are to reach a successful resolution. Make sure you aren't working against your attorney. If you are looking for an attorney to help with your case, consider one from a company like Swartz & Swartz P.C.
Share30 June 2016
After I was accused of doing something that I knew I didn't do, I knew that I needed a trained lawyer by my side to help me to fight the bogus charges. I started talking with different attorneys, and I was able to find a professional that really understood what I was up against. He helped me to identify the different challenges I would be faced with, and he walked me though the entire process. Because of his understanding and diligence, I was able to fight the charges, and it was an incredible feeling. Check out this blog for more information.
