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Coping With Legal Issues

When I started getting into trouble I became pretty acclimated to legal procedures. Calling my attorney and working out bail was just another way to spend a Saturday night. Unfortunately, the stiffer the charges, the more difficult it was to talk my way out of a bad situation. After so many charges, I found myself slapped with a long jail sentence, and I realized that I wanted to turn things around. Fortunately, my lawyer was able to walk me through yet another process, so that I could make the right changes. My blog discusses how to emotionally cope with legal issues so that you can start living a good life.

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Coping With Legal Issues

3 Times You Should Contact A Criminal Defense Lawyer Even If You Have Not Been Arrested

by Lillian Wheeler

If you are arrested and charged with a crime, reaching out to a criminal defense lawyer will likely be an obvious reaction. However, it is not always a good idea to wait until after you have been arrested before consulting a lawyer. In fact, there are a few situations in which it is always a good idea to consult a criminal defense lawyer even though you have not been arrested. You can learn more about three of these situations below. 

#1: You Are The Subject Of A Criminal Investigation

Law enforcement typically needs to investigate before any arrests can be made regarding a criminal matter. These investigations will often include the interrogation of potential suspects and potential witnesses. If you are made aware of the fact that your name has come up in connection to a crime, it is always a good idea to consult a criminal defense lawyer. In many cases, choosing to hire a defense attorney before you are officially charged with a crime can help to minimize the chances that you are placed under arrest. This is because an experienced attorney can help you navigate the investigation process and ensure you do not make any statements that can be used against you. 

#2: There Is A Warrant For Your Arrest

If there is an active warrant out for your arrest, it is a good idea to contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. This attorney will be able to help you negotiate the terms of your surrender to law enforcement. For example, in return for turning yourself in, your attorney may be able to arrange for you to be released with minimal bail until you are arraigned. Your attorney will also be able to help with making bond arrangements so that your bail can be posted as quickly as possible once you are officially placed under arrest. 

#3: Your Rights Have Been Violated During A Criminal Investigation

Law enforcement is required to follow very specific procedures when conducting a criminal investigation. These procedures are mandated by legal statutes and are put in place to protect the rights of individual citizens. For example, law enforcement is required to obtain a search warrant to search or seize any personal property unless there are extenuating circumstances. If law enforcement conducts an illegal search of your property, any evidence that is collected as a result of this search cannot be used against you. If you suspect that your rights have been violated as a result of a criminal investigation, it is always a good idea to reach out to a criminal defense lawyer to ensure you are being treated fairly and lawfully. 

To learn more, contact a criminal defense lawyer in your area.

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