The answer is YES!
If you're facing legal issues, there's always going to be a high level of uncertainty and the need for a lawyer becomes clear. Below, we'll break down a few reasons as to why it's so important to always hire an attorney when facing potential criminal charges:
- Explain the law to you and all its nuances
The law can be complicated and that is why it requires so much schooling to become a lawyer. Attorneys can explain the charge you are facing, the range of punishment, the defenses available, and any defense strategies. Attorneys are required to take continuing legal education courses each year and this helps them stay on top on the constantly changing laws. Attorneys know which approach to take based on the charge and facts of the case.
- Advise you to not give a statement to the police
When you first find out that you may be facing a criminal charge, you may think it is a good idea to speak to the police but you are wrong. It is never a good idea to speak to the police! Officers go through years of training on interrogation techniques so they are taught to observe your body language and ask questions to see if they can get you give a different answer than before. Also, remember that ANY statement you give to the police can and will be used against you. Even if you are 100% innocent and have nothing to hide, never speak to the police alone, ALWAYS have an attorney present. The attorney is the barrier you need from the police to further protect you.
- Attorneys know the proper process and procedure
The sooner you hire an attorney, the sooner he/she can start working on your case. An attorney can request the evidence directly from the arresting agency to get a better idea of how to defend you. The attorney can also start preparing character statements and gather witnesses for a possible grand jury packet. Attorneys also know where to file court documents and know who to speak to even before a case has been filed. In addition, attorneys know that cases take time to resolve so the expectation that it should get dismissed on the first court date is unrealistic.
- Attorneys know how to challenge evidence obtained
After careful review of all the evidence in your case, an attorney can determine if any constitutional rights were violated. If so, a motion to suppress can be drafted and a hearing held for a judge to make the determination.
- Attorneys know how to negotiate with the State
An experienced attorney knows what works and does not work for a District Attorney. Each county is different and as such negotiations vary. In addition, each county offers various programs that if successfully completed results in a dismissal. If a jury trial is not the best option for you then a deal can be negotiated.
If you are faced with a criminal charge, please contact our office immediately! We can help defend you against various crimes and will fight vigorously to protect your legal rights. You can call us 24/7 by calling (214) 238-9392 or visit our law office at 900 Jackson Street, Suite 635 Dallas, Texas 75202. Don’t wait before it is too late!