COMMON MISTAKES AMONG THE ACCUSED

The following are eight things you should never do if accused of a crime. If you find yourself charged with a crime, call Kevin Stockstill for a consultation today.

Allowing a search and seizure

Unless law enforcement can obtain a search warrant, you have the right to deny a search in a knock and talk situation. If officers approach your home and request to be allowed inside or ask to conduct a search, you have every right to say no; and you should. Consenting to a search only complicates the situation and makes it more difficult for your attorney to appropriately represent you.

Give a voluntary statement

When you are arrested, you have the right to remain silent. Use that right, even if a statement is requested of you. You have the right to wait for your lawyer.

Behave discourteously with police

Just because the police are performing an investigation that involves you, you shouldn't be discourteous with them. In fact, this will only escalate the situation, which could get out of hand very quickly and lead to your injury and potentially further charges. If you believe the police have acted unlawfully, it is never the time to bring it up with them. Wait to speak to your lawyer and allow your lawyer to handle it.

Resist arrest

Never resist arrest. If the arrest is unlawful, your lawyer will deal with it later.

Voluntarily submit to breath, blood, or saliva testing

A warranty is necessary if you do not voluntarily agree, so let the police get a warrant. This will also allow your lawyer to appropriately prepare accordingly.

Agree to a polygraph test

Polygraph tests are admissible in court due to their unreliability. Never agree to taking one.

Keeping facts from lawyers

Criminal defense lawyers have made defense their career for the sake of helping people. They will never judge you. Keeping facts from lawyers only makes it more difficult to appropriately represent you, not allowing your lawyer to prepare for facts accordingly.

Choosing a non-specialty lawyer

A criminal defense lawyer has experience and knows, without a doubt, how to most appropriately represent you. Failing to choose a criminal defense lawyer is never your best bet.