If I Have Not Been Arrested Yet but Am a Suspect, Do I Need a Lawyer?
The moment you become aware that you are under suspicion of a crime of any type, it is prudent to contact an attorney. Discovering that there is a possibility that you will be arrested and charged in the future affords you a unique opportunity to prepare in advance for any contact with the police and investigators. In fact, it is preferable to learn that you are a suspect prior to arrest. An attorney can aid you in preparing for a potential future arrest. Those who have no notice that they are under suspicion before the moment they are placed in handcuffs are at a considerable disadvantage - they are more prone to making costly mistakes during questioning before requesting an attorney. Particularly if the criminal offense you are suspected of is a felony, having an attorney’s assistance from the outset of an investigation against you can be enormously beneficial. If you believe that the police are investigating you for potential criminal activity or that you have become a suspect, contacting a lawyer promptly can make a vast difference in your case.
How a Lawyer Can Help You Prior to Arrest
In some cases, an attorney can preempt certain investigative techniques used by police to protect you from potential incrimination. Reasons that you should contact an attorney before formal charges have been levied include:
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Knowing what to do - There is a significant amount of misinformation and myths perpetuated about what the constitutional rights of an arrestee or suspect are. By communicating with an attorney in advance of a potential arrest, you will be armed with accurate and up-to-date information regarding what rights you have and what the police may or may not do.
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Ready evidence - An attorney can begin gathering evidence tending to make it appear less likely that you have committed the crime you are suspected of as soon as it is clear that you are under suspicion. Many arrestees make their initial court appearance with an attorney who has only that day learned of the matter at hand. You can enter your first appearance with a well-prepared lawyer who has much of the same information the prosecutor does.
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Expedient bail - One of the first tasks of a criminal defense attorney in each representation is to strive to secure bail promptly so that you are not held in jail any longer than purely necessary while awaiting an early appearance.
Onboarding a lawyer as soon as possible in the criminal justice process can offer significant benefits from the outset to the conclusion.
Call a Texas Criminal Defense Lawyer
Law Offices of Sam H. Lock is committed to providing high-quality criminal defense services beginning at the very outset of your involvement with the criminal justice process. Our skilled San Antonio criminal defense lawyers can begin representing you the moment you learn that you are under suspicion. Call 210-226-0965 for a
Source:
https://www.aclu.org/know-your-rights/what-do-when-encountering-law-enforcement-questioning
