8 Critical Steps to Take After Being Charged with a Crime

Being charged with a crime, no matter the severity, can be one of the most stressful experiences you’ll ever face. After all, your future, freedom, and reputation might be at risk, whether the charge is a minor misdemeanor or a serious felony. The way you handle the situation in the immediate aftermath of being charged can greatly influence the outcome of your case, as can your decision in hiring a criminal defense attorney.

Call Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP to schedule a free consultation with an expert criminal defense lawyer. Here are eight critical steps to take after being charged with a crime:

• Remain Calm

It’s natural to feel panicked when faced with a criminal charge, but staying calm is crucial. Acting impulsively or out of fear can lead to decisions that negatively affect your case. Take a deep breath, avoid making any rash decisions, and focus on the steps ahead to protect yourself legally.

Remember, a criminal charge is just an allegation. It does not mean you’re guilty or that a conviction is inevitable. By staying composed, you’ll be in a better position to take the necessary steps to defend yourself. 

• Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately

Probably the most important step you can take after being charged with a crime is to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney. A skilled lawyer will provide legal guidance, explain the charges against you, and help you understand the possible consequences. They will also advise you on how to interact with law enforcement, gather evidence, and build a robust defense strategy.

Don’t wait to secure legal representation. The Combs Waterkotte legal team is available 24/7. Contact them online to discuss the specifics of your case with an attorney. The earlier you bring a defense attorney on board, the better your chances of mitigating the impact of the charges and avoiding critical missteps.

• Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent

When you’re charged with a crime, law enforcement might try to question you in hopes of gathering information to use against you. It’s important to exercise your right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in court. Even seemingly innocent statements can be taken out of context or twisted to support the prosecution’s case.

Politely but firmly inform the police that you won’t speak without an attorney present. You are under no obligation to provide a statement, and it’s best to avoid saying anything until you’ve consulted with a defense attorney.

• Understand the Charges Against You

It’s important to fully understand the charges you’re facing and their potential consequences. Your Combs Waterkotte defense attorney will help explain the nature of the charges, whether they’re misdemeanors or felonies, and the penalties associated with a conviction. They will also clarify any legal terms or procedures that may be unfamiliar. 

Knowing the specifics of the charges will allow you to make informed decisions throughout the legal process. It will also help you understand the importance of each step in building your defense.

• Do Not Discuss Your Case with Anyone Other Than Your Lawyer

After being charged, it’s essential to limit conversations about your case to only your attorney. This includes family, friends, and particularly social media. Anything you share with others could be used against you if subpoenaed or overheard by investigators. 

Conversations with your lawyer are protected by attorney-client privilege, ensuring that any details you provide are confidential. Be mindful that casual conversations with others, even if well-intentioned, can end up jeopardizing your defense.

• Collect and Preserve Evidence

Evidence plays a key role in defending against criminal charges. Whether it’s physical evidence, documents, or witness statements, preserving anything that could help your case is crucial. Share any information or leads with your Combs Waterkotte attorney as soon as possible, so they can take steps to collect and safeguard it. 

If you believe that there are witnesses who can support your defense, or if there is any documentation that proves your innocence, inform your lawyer immediately. Waiting too long can result in evidence being lost, destroyed, or forgotten.

• Follow Court Orders and Attend All Court Dates

After being charged, you will likely be given court dates for hearings, arraignments, or trials. It’s essential that you attend every required court appearance and follow all court orders, like conditions of bail or release.

Missing a court date can result in a warrant for your arrest and negatively impact your case. Your defense attorney will help keep track of important deadlines and ensure you comply with court procedures. Failure to do so can make it more difficult to mount a successful defense.

• Avoid Talking to Law Enforcement Without Your Combs Waterkotte Lawyer Present

If law enforcement tries to contact you after you’ve been charged, do not speak to them without your lawyer present. Even if you claim they just want to “clear things up” or “help you out,” their goal is to gather information for their investigation. Anything you say without legal counsel present can be detrimental to your defense.

Tell the officers that you are represented by counsel and direct them to contact your Combs Waterkotte legal team for any communication. This will protect you from being pressured into making statements that could harm your case.

Being charged with a crime is an intimidating experience. By taking the right steps though, you can protect your rights and improve your chances of a favorable outcome. By following these eight critical steps, you’ll be better equipped to handle the challenges ahead and mount an effective defense against the charges you’re facing.

Call Combs Waterkotte right now at (314) 900-HELP for a confidential consultation. Our knowledgeable attorneys have over 40 years of experience successfully defending clients in cases just like yours.