Most of us will never commit a crime, either a felony or a misdemeanor. Or, at the very least, we will never intend to. Unfortunately, life is unpredictable, and you might get yourself into a terrible situation, one that will require the expertise of a criminal lawyer.
Before the process even begins, it is critical to forget everything you think you know about the justice system from watching “Law & Order” marathons. It’s not like what you see on television or what you saw in a motion picture. It’s real life: the biggest tragedy of them all.
If you have gotten into trouble with the law, then sit down and prepare yourself because criminal lawyers will tell you some basic information. Here are the five best criminal lawyer tips and advice:
1. Always Consult with an Attorney
Whenever you engage with law enforcement, you should always consult with an attorney first. This is important to protect yourself under any circumstance, whether you are charged with a crime or you suspected to be in connection with someone else.
From coming into a precinct for an interview to coming under suspicion, it would be best that you have a criminal lawyer present. This way, you do not incriminate yourself, and you have proper legal advice to navigate through the complex world of the justice system.
2. Request a Warrant
A common mistake that many people make is believing in this idea: if you have done nothing wrong, then you have nothing to hide.
Should you come into contact with the law, you need to toss this concept into the waste bin.
Simply put: if police want to search your premises, you need to request a warrant first. This is essential for both your own protection and the rule of law.
3. Never Lie to the Law Enforcement
The worst way to handle your interactions with police officers, attorneys, and other members of the justice system is lying. Every criminal lawyer will tell you that honesty is the best policy. By fibbing, you are only getting yourself into a bad situation. From the moment you start talking with cops to the time you speak with your criminal lawyer, you should be honest.
4. Misdemeanor vs. Felony – What’s the Difference?
Many people are aware of misdemeanors and felonies, but they cannot distinguish between the two.
So, what is the difference exactly?
- Misdemeanor: A less serious and non-violent crime like shoplifting and indecent exposure.
- Felony: A serious crime like murder, kidnapping, and rape.
By differentiating between the two, you can better equip yourself with Canada’s crime code.
5. The Process Will be Long & Stressful
Are you charged with a crime? Are you scheduled to appear in court? Will you need to serve time in prison until your trial date? Whatever your situation is, you need to realize in advance that the process will be long and stressful. It might also cost you a pretty penny, too, from court costs to lost wages.
There is nothing like going to court and defending yourself. It’s the hardest thing you can ever imagine.
When we think of the justice system, we typically conjure up images of “Law & Order” or John Grisham movies. But it isn’t anything close to what is depicted in the media. When you are directly impacted, it is a slow, stressful, and costly affair. It can leave you crippled for months, and you’ll never be the same again. It’s a life-changing experience.
That said, you can have tremendous assistance if you hire a criminal lawyer, one who has seen and done it all. Once you have this aid by your side, it is a lot easier to endure judges, officers, and attorneys.
