Do you know that Toledo is among the most dangerous cities in the United States? In 2020, a total of 12,203 violent and property crimes were reported. Further, 208 people were raped and an additional 34 murdered.
Unfortunately, in the pursuit of justice, many innocent people are arrested. You may be misidentified or unlucky to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.
So, what should you do if you’re arrested and charged with a crime in Toledo? The first step should be contacting a criminal lawyer.
It’s also important to know your rights as an arrested person. Such include:
The Right to Remain Silent
We cannot stress this point enough. Do not make a statement to the police before talking to your lawyer.
Remember, according to the law you’re innocent until a competent court proves you guilty. Further, the fifth amendment protects you from implicating yourself. So, don’t utter a word until your lawyer is present.
Be Polite
It’s normal to get angry and protest when you’re arrested for a crime you didn’t commit. The aggressive line of questioning by the police can be scary and frustrating.
Despite all this, be calm and polite. Do not argue, complain or resist arrest.
Here are the reasons why you need the help of a criminal defense lawyer
1. Deep Understanding of the Judicial System
The criminal defense attorney has a clear understanding of how the judicial system in your country works. He or she understands the intricate court workings and procedures. With this, they can guide you through the court process depending on your case.
2. Careful Evaluation of the Evidence
The only way for prosecutors to prove the charges is by presenting evidence in court. However, it’s worth noting that not all evidence presented in court is true or obtained in a legal manner.
The criminal defense attorney knows how to catch such evidence. Plus, they know how to deal with witnesses who exaggerate the truth. With their experience, the lawyers can point out inconsistencies and weaknesses in the evidence presented by the prosecution.
Therefore, you need a competent defense attorney to examine evidence and witnesses presented in court.
3. Protect Your Future
When facing a criminal charge, your life is at stake. If the court finds you guilty, then you’ll have to pay huge fines or spend years in prison.
But that’s not all! The crime will forever appear in your records.
A professional defense attorney helps you maintain a clean criminal record.
4. Saves Your Money
Hiring an experienced defense attorney is worth your money. With their experience, they’re able to mount a strong case in your favor. Winning the case might help you keep your job and license. How many months of income would you lose if you were jailed tomorrow? And possibly, what would happen if you’re denied your practicing license?
Even if you keep your job and license, missing work to attend court or because you’re jailed may cause a huge financial strain.
5. Expert Legal Advice
A professional criminal defense attorney knows how to deal with your case. Over the years, they’ve come across several cases similar to yours.
With their experience, they can lead you to have the case dismissed successfully.
Conclusion
It’s amazing how many people think that innocent people don’t need the help of a good criminal law attorney. But watch the news and see stories of people serving time for crimes they didn’t commit. Remember, the police and the prosecutor have focused their energy to prove their case. Moving this focus away from a competent criminal law attorney.
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