4 of the Worst Things You Can Do When Facing Criminal Charges

Did you know that between 70 million and 100 million — or up to one in three Americans — have a criminal record? That might be difficult to comprehend.

If you’re facing criminal charges, one mistake you can’t make is contacting one of the witnesses for the prosecution. You’ll want the scales of justice to tip in your favor, and the right criminal defense attorney can help accomplish just that.

But even the most reputable, experienced, and successful legal professional will have difficulty getting you the desired outcome if you make certain missteps. 

Here are four things you can’t do when facing criminal charges. Avoid them at all costs!

1. Being Dishonest With Your Lawyer

Remember that your criminal defense attorney is part of your team. So, if you’re untruthful or withhold vital information your lawyer should know, you’re not doing yourself any favors. In fact, you’re hurting your case. Self-representation in court is a legal right, but it’s an option that works better on the big or small screen. Those movies are made up with no real-life consequences, which isn’t the case if you face criminal charges. Hiring a lawyer is necessary when the outcome can change your life forever.

But if you hire a lawyer, the last thing you should do is throw them curveballs. That’s what you’ll be doing if you’re not completely honest with your criminal defense attorney.

When facing possible fines, incarceration, or other penalties, you don’t need to make matters worse by being dishonest with the person you’re counting on for justice.

2. Speaking to the Police Without Your Lawyer Present

One of the worst things you can do when facing criminal charges is talk to the police without your lawyer. It’s a mistake that can bite you where it hurts since whatever you say can be used against you in court. You have the right to remain silent and obtain legal representation before talking to the cops. After you hire a lawyer, follow their lead. 

If you agree to an interrogation, your lawyer should be there. They’ll tell you what questions to answer, how much information to provide, which questions to refuse, and when to end the interrogation. You’re asking for trouble if you engage with law enforcement officials independently. 

3. Violating Pretrial Service Requirements

Yet another mistake to avoid like the plague is violating pretrial service rules. If you’re charged, you will attend an arraignment to learn about release conditions you must abide by. These conditions are not suggestions or recommendations. 

You must comply with them if released from custody ahead of your trial. If you have questions about whether something you want to do might jeopardize your freedom, consult your lawyer. You’ll get the nitty-gritty on what is and is not acceptable.

4. Posting Details About Your Case Online

Another major no-no is posting details about your case online. Some post everything on social media — no matter what the topic. But that’s a mistake that could end up hurting you. The information you post can be used against you. So, it’s best to give social media a break during a criminal trial. Avoid doing anything that could hurt you.

And even if you think the information you post isn’t confidential, it could still hurt you. Your lawyer will likely recommend that you take a break from social media during your case. 

Avoid Doing These Things at All Costs

Facing criminal charges is no joke. Hiring a reputable criminal defense attorney is the best thing you can do. But committing these four mistakes can throw a wrench in your plans and ruin your hopes for a good legal outcome.