Misconceptions Related to Criminal Charges
If you are facing criminal charges, you know how jarring it can be, even if you are innocent—or maybe especially if you are innocent. You may be told not to worry—the truth always wins out in the end. But, unfortunate as it is, innocent people are convicted of crimes and locked up every single day across this nation. What you need more than anything at this point is a tough, no-nonsense criminal defense attorney fighting on your behalf.
Be Wary!
The law allows police to mislead—aka lie—to you in order to squeeze information out of you. In other words, just because they tell you something, it doesn’t mean it’s true. Additionally, you may have some misconceptions about the criminal justice system based on movies and tv. For example:
- Officers may tell you that things will go well for you if you’ll simply cooperate with them, but that’s not necessarily true. You should not say anything without your attorney present, because whatever you do say could be taken out of context and used against you later.
- You may be told that there is strong, damning evidence and/or testimony implicating your guilt. But police could be a fictional police story! Don’t fall for it!
- Miranda is often misunderstood. A recent Supreme Court decision determined it is not a violation of a constitutional right if you are not read your Miranda Rights before being interrogated. They ruled that it violates a constitutional rule, which means you can never collect damages for violations. It appears that Miranda Rights are not necessarily the safeguard some believe them to be.
- Police may try to convince you that if you’ll just confess, things will go easier for you. Of course, never ever make a written or verbal confession without the advice of your attorney. You just can’t know how binding any deal the police offer you will be without your lawyer there.
- You may be told that if you cooperate, you’ll be home in no time—but don’t count on it. Contrary to the fast-paced cases that occur every week on your favorite crime-drama tv show, once you’re involved in a criminal case, it could be a very long time before you’re in the clear.
- After charges are filed, you may think that they can be rapidly and effortlessly dropped, but in truth the whole thing must go through a court process, which can take time.
- You may believe that because you’re innocent, going to trial is your best option–no matter what. Actually, a trial racks up costs in time, money, stress, and worry, and after all that, you still may be found guilty. In some situations a plea deal is a good option, so listen to your attorney before making any decisions.
The Defense You Deserve
The dedicated and aggressive La Plata & Waldorf criminal defense attorneys at The Law Office of Hammad S. Matin, P.A. always go to bat for you in an effort to achieve the best possible outcomes. To discuss your situation, schedule a confidential consultation today.
