Getting charged with a criminal offense can be a challenging experience, as it has the potential to wholly transform the rest of your life. It is, therefore, important to be prepared and well-informed as to what you should and shouldn’t do as your case evolves.
Once you get arrested for an alleged criminal offense, everything you do or say from that moment going forward may affect your case. For example, the following are mistakes that could negatively affect your criminal defense case.
Talking to law enforcement without legal counsel
As the saying goes, “anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law.” This statement, often read during the Miranda rights advisement underscores the importance of seeking legal counsel before engaging in any discussions with law enforcement. Speaking with them without the presence of an attorney can inadvertently lead to self-incrimination or the disclosure of information that could be used against you in court.
Posting on social media
Putting details of your case or your activities related to the case on social media can be a detrimental mistake. Even innocent-seeming posts or comments can be misinterpreted or used against you by the prosecution. Remember that social media platforms are not private and anything you post can potentially be accessed by law enforcement or used as evidence in court.
Destroying evidence or tampering with witnesses
Attempting to destroy evidence or tamper with witnesses can significantly harm your defense and potentially lead to additional charges. Such actions not only undermine the integrity of the legal process but also erode your credibility in the eyes of the court. Prosecutors are skilled at uncovering attempts to obstruct justice and these actions can severely damage your case.
Being too quick to accept a plea agreement
It would be in your best interest to carefully consider any plea agreements offered by the prosecution before accepting them. While a plea deal may seem like a quick resolution to your case, agreeing to one without fully understanding its implications or without adequate legal guidance can have serious consequences.
Getting legal counsel should be the first thing you do immediately after getting arrested for an alleged criminal offense. Doing so will help to ensure that you do not misstep in ways that could compromise the outcome of your case.
