Being charged with a crime can be a frightening experience, especially in New York where the legal system can be complex and intimidating. It is crucial to understand your rights and the common mistakes to avoid when facing criminal charges in New York. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid:
- Talking to the police without a lawyer: Many people believe that if they are innocent, they can explain their side of the story to the police and be cleared of any charges. However, this is a common misconception that can be detrimental to your case. Anything you say to the police can be used against you in court, even if it was taken out of context. It is essential to have a criminal defense attorney present during any police questioning.
- Failing to hire a qualified criminal defense attorney: Criminal defense attorneys are trained to defend people against criminal charges. They know the law and the legal system, and they can help you navigate your case. It is essential to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney who has a good track record of defending clients in New York.
- Waiting too long to hire an attorney: Time is of the essence when it comes to criminal charges. The longer you wait to hire an attorney, the more time the prosecution has to build their case against you. It is important to hire an attorney as soon as possible to start building a strong defense.
- Ignoring court orders: If you are out on bail, you must abide by the court’s orders. Failing to do so can result in additional charges, such as bail jumping. It is essential to follow all court orders to avoid any additional legal trouble.
- Failing to understand the charges: It is crucial to understand the charges against you and the potential penalties. Many people underestimate the seriousness of their charges and fail to take the necessary steps to defend themselves properly. It is essential to work with an attorney who can help you understand the charges against you and the potential consequences.
- Talking about your case with others: It is crucial to keep your case confidential. Talking about your case with others, even close friends or family members, can be detrimental to your case. It is essential to keep your case private and discuss it only with your attorney.
- Representing yourself: Representing yourself in court is never a good idea. Even if you are a lawyer, you are likely to be too emotionally involved in your case to defend yourself effectively. It is crucial to have a criminal defense attorney who can objectively represent you in court.
- Failing to provide your attorney with all the necessary information: Your attorney can only help you if they have all the necessary information about your case. It is crucial to provide your attorney with all the facts related to your case, even if they are embarrassing or incriminating. Your attorney cannot defend you effectively if they do not have all the information.
- Believing everything the prosecution tells you: Prosecutors are trained to convince you to plead guilty, and they often use scare tactics to do so. It is essential to remember that the prosecution is not on your side, and they will use anything you say against you. It is crucial to have a criminal defense attorney who can help you navigate the legal system and negotiate with the prosecution on your behalf.
- Failing to prepare for trial: If your case goes to trial, it is crucial to be prepared. Your attorney will work with you to build a strong defense, but it is essential to take an active role in preparing for trial. This includes reviewing the evidence, preparing your testimony, and practicing how to answer questions in court.
- Failing to appear in court: Failing to appear in court can result in additional charges and the issuance of a warrant for your arrest. It is crucial to attend all court appearances and to notify your attorney immediately if you cannot attend.
- Failing to take the charges seriously: Criminal charges can have serious consequences, including jail time, fines, and a criminal record. It is essential to take the charges against you seriously and to work with an attorney who can help you build a strong defense.
Facing criminal charges in New York can be overwhelming and intimidating, but it is essential to avoid these common mistakes to protect your rights and build a strong defense. Working with an experienced criminal defense attorney is crucial to navigating the legal system and defending your rights effectively. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can increase your chances of a favorable outcome and move forward with your life.
Arthur L. Pressman, Attorney at Law, is an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you with criminal charges in New York. Mr. Pressman has over 30 years of experience defending clients against criminal charges in both state and federal court. He has a reputation for being a skilled trial lawyer who is dedicated to his client’s rights and interests.
If you are facing criminal charges in New York, Mr. Pressman can help you by:
- Providing a free initial consultation: Mr. Pressman offers a free initial consultation to discuss your case and answer any questions you may have. During this consultation, he will review the charges against you and explain your rights and options.
- Building a strong defense: Mr. Pressman will work with you to build a strong defense against the charges you are facing. He will thoroughly review the evidence against you and develop a strategy that will give you the best chance of a favorable outcome.
- Negotiating with the prosecution: In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate a plea deal with the prosecution. Mr. Pressman has extensive experience negotiating with prosecutors and can help you obtain the best possible outcome.
- Representing you in court: If your case goes to trial, Mr. Pressman will represent you in court. He is a skilled trial lawyer who will work tirelessly to defend your rights and interests.
- Providing guidance and support: Facing criminal charges can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Mr. Pressman will provide you with guidance and support throughout the legal process. He will keep you informed about the status of your case and answer any questions you may have.
If you are facing criminal charges in New York, it is essential to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney like Arthur L. Pressman. He has the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to defend your rights and interests effectively. Contact our office today to schedule a free initial consultation and learn more about how he can help you with your case.