What you should be doing if you get arrested
In case you are arrested, you must first state that you want a lawyer. Don't be ambivalent by stating, "I believe I need a lawyer," or asking, "Do I need a lawyer." Be clear and state, "I WANT A LAWYER." Say nothing else. Then, period.
By law, the authorities cannot talk to you any further. If the police continue steadily talking to you, say nothing until your lawyer appears. If you start the conversation, it could say that you waived your right to counsel despite requesting a lawyer to be present.
Once arrested and charged in an ongoing state case, a bail amount and an arraignment date are usually set. The arraignment, where the accused pleads either guilty or not guilty, could even be days or weeks away. After pleading not guilty at the arraignment, the defense is provided a deadline to document pretrial motions, usually 15 days. It isn't uncommon to have several motion hearing dates before the trial of severe issues.
In either a constant state or Federal case, it is strongly suggested that you utilize your resources to hire a skilled and experienced criminal defense lawyer instead of spending your cash on bail. Use your resources to have the best defense available rather than spending your money on bail and not having enough for an excellent lawyer.
Of course, if you fail to hire private counsel, you'll be given a courtroom-appointed lawyer, but this is not usually the best defense available. It isn't that public defenders are bad lawyers; it is more that public defenders don't have the proper time or resources to provide you with the best defense. Private counsel will almost always provide your best chance to get the best outcome.
Ask pointed queries in deciding which lawyer to hire. You should consider only lawyers who focus on handling criminal defense issues. And only lawyers who have handled your kind of case before. If the entire case is in Government court, hire a lawyer who is experienced in managing Federal criminal cases. State and Federal courtrooms are extraordinarily different and require a skilled and experienced lawyer who understands the system to provide you with the perfect defense.
Be sure one of your questions in choosing a lawyer is what steps shall he take to defend you. Your worst nightmare is to get a lawyer who appears to negotiate a plea deal for you personally hastily. Pleading guilty ought to be the last holiday resort, not an accurate way for an instant resolution.
A seasoned, good criminal defense lawyer will investigate the facts, including witnesses for the state and defense. They shall interview the authorities and analyze reports carefully, statements, and other proof. Getting the best possible outcome for you personally takes a lot of effort and time. Getting the most significant outcome is no accident; it's the natural consequence of a diligent, complex, functioning criminal defense lawyer.
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