Whether you’ve been accused of a crime or are dealing with a situation that could escalate, knowing when to get a criminal attorney can play a crucial role in your case. (The people you see walking out of court just didn’t listen to this advice, as they waited until the last moment to step into a court, and it usually ended in disaster.) It’s not worth sticking your head in the sand and pretending it will go away, because once you are on the losing side of a legal battle, the outcome may not fare well for your favor. But that’s not how criminal law operates. Mistakes made early on can have long-lasting effects.
At the Manderscheid Law Firm, PLLC, in Pinellas County, Florida, we are committed to helping individuals who have become involved in the confusing and overwhelming area of criminal law. If you’re wondering how to tell when you need to hire a criminal lawyer? This piece will help you identify those scenarios in which seeking legal counsel is not merely a good idea, but an utter necessity.
Arrest or Actual Charge
This would seem to be the most clear-cut situation, but there are still many people who wait until they are involved in proceedings before taking on a lawyer. You need to call a criminal defense lawyer the first time you are arrested or when you find out you are being charged. Law enforcement may say, “We just want to talk,” or “you don’t need a lawyer at this point,” but remember, anything you say can and will be used against you.
Manderscheid Law Firm, PLLC has a lot of experience with early intervention and is frequently able to save people from being overcharged or unfairly charged and prosecuted.
Under Investigation, But Not Charged
Even if you haven’t been arrested, you could be under investigation by the police or a public agency. This is frequently the case in white collar crimes, in drug cases, and in cases where you’re accused by a co-worker, family member, or other person. You may get a call from a detective or be asked to come in for questioning. Right now, a lot of people don’t know they’re in danger.
This is one of the most important responses to the question: When do you need a criminal attorney? If you are under investigation, simply getting in front of an attorney early could mean the difference between no charges being filed and an investigation that is severely limited in scope. Manderscheid Law Firm, PLLC, knows how to navigate pre-charge investigations and to protect the client from self-incrimination or other adverse consequences.
When You Get a Summons Or A Notice To Appear
Occasionally, rather than be arrested, you may be given a court summons or notice to appear in court for a criminal charge. This is typical of misdemeanors, moving violations, and non-violent violations.
Missing your date in court can result in harsher penalties, such as a warrant for your arrest for not showing up. A criminal attorney can evaluate your case, inform you of your options, and develop the best possible defense to save your reputation and liberty.
When Dealing with a Violation of Probation or Parole
If you’re already on probation, any alleged violation, even if it seems technical or trivial, can land you behind bars. Issues such as missing a probation officer meeting, testing positive for drugs, or getting arrested on additional criminal charges need to be addressed promptly and carefully.
This is another obvious example of the importance of knowing when you need a criminal lawyer. At Manderscheid Law Firm, PLLC, we are in court regularly defending clients accused of probation violations, advocating for conditions that work in a defendant’s favor, or calling into question the basis of the violations.
Arguments and Restraining Orders
Police are typically called during a heated argument, and someone might be taken out of the home, or a restraining order might be issued. These escalations could just as easily lead police to charge someone with a crime for domestic battery, stalking, or violating a protection order, even when the alleged victim doesn’t want to pursue charges.
This is a common grey area of confusion. Knowing when you need a criminal attorney is the best way to avoid making irreversible mistakes. Do not attempt to settle this informally or without an attorney. The Manderscheid Law Firm, PLLC may be able to help you with the legal side of domestic charges, work to bring the situation down to a manageable level, and protect your reputation.
Charges of Drug Possession and Drug Crimes
Florida enforces strict drug laws, and having a small amount of a controlled substance on you can result in felony charges. Most of those arrested for drugs are nonviolent, first-time offenders or addicts who belong in rehab, not prison.
If this is not the case, however, a seasoned lawyer may be able to fight for a drug court program or a reduction of charges.
White Collar Crime and Financial Investigation
When it comes to white-collar crime, and particularly financial crime (including fraud, embezzlement, and identity theft), there are often a lot of moving parts that go into the body of evidence needed to prove someone’s guilt. If you believe that your business practices are under investigation or you have received a call from law enforcement regarding a discrepancy in your finances, then it is time to consult with a legal professional.
They are high-stakes situations where early legal strategy is key. At Manderscheid Law Firm, PLLC, we are skilled in analyzing bank statements, collaborating with forensic accountants, and defending clients from being misconstrued or misquoted.
Immigration and Criminal Collisions
Additionally, non-citizens have added implications if charged with a crime. Immigration status can be put in jeopardy due to a criminal charge, even a misdemeanor, and you may face deportation proceedings or be permanently barred from re-entry to the U.S.
In such instances, the importance of having a lawyer who is knowledgeable in both immigration and criminal law cannot be overstated. Manderscheid Law Firm, PLLC files motions to get your charges dismissed. We advise non-citizen clients on defense strategies that are not only effective in avoiding jail time, but also are effective in avoiding the life-altering immigration consequences.
Sometimes, a Preventive Consultation Is Sufficient
Full representation is not always called for. Sometimes all you need is just some advice to know what your rights and obligations are. Whether you’ve simply gotten into an argument, are dealing with workplace accusations, or are worried about the possibility of a legal threat that might arise, talking to a lawyer sooner may help you avoid missteps.
Understanding when you need a criminal lawyer is not only a matter of defending against charges; it’s also about assessing risk and taking action ahead of time to safeguard your interests.
If you are dealing with any of the above scenarios, or even suspect them and are worried, don’t wait until you’ve missed the boat. Manderscheid Law Firm, PLLC offers discreet, experienced legal counsel to clients throughout Pinellas County, including St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Largo.
Move forward with the first step in safeguarding your rights and future. Speak with Manderscheid Law Firm, PLLC today for a private consultation and receive the legal help you deserve before it gets any worse.
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