Somers Point Criminal Defense Legal Professionals
A criminal charge can be confusing and frightening. Many people do not understand their rights or what they need to do if they are facing criminal charges.
- If a police officer requests permission to search your body, your car, or your home, you are not required to consent. If law enforcement officers have a search warrant signed by a judge, or has some other legal reason to conduct a search, he may do so without your permission. If you are asked, though, you may refuse.
- Do not argue or resist a police officer if he insists on conducting a search. Remember to tell your lawyer about the circumstances involving a search.
- You are not required to answer any questions after being arrested or charged with a crime. You should always request an attorney before talking to the authorities. The police are required to read you your rights if you are under arrest. If this is not done, make sure to let you attorney know.
- Anything you post on social media may be accessed by the police or prosecuting lawyer, and can be used against you. Even a seemingly harmless post may come back to haunt you later.
- Call an attorney right away. The sooner you retain a qualified advocate, the sooner he can get to work for you.
- Make sure to tell your lawyer everything. Make sure your attorney knows everything about your case. He cannot adequately represent you if he is missing critical information. All conversations between a lawyer and a client are protected and confidential.
Criminal Law Firm in Somers Point
A lot of a criminal defense attorney’s work is done before a case gets to trial. Criminal cases are often dismissed due to improper procedures on the part of police officers or incorrect handling of critical evidence. Your attorney may be able to get the charges against you lessened or even dismissed through the use of pre-trial motions.
Often, charges are often dismissed or reduced as part of a plea bargain. Criminal defense lawyers work with prosecutors for a reduction in charges or penalties in exchange for a guilty plea. Every case is different. Working with your attorney, you can decide the best strategy for your circumstances.
If you have been convicted of a crime and have completed all conditions of your sentence, including any jail time, probation, community service and/ or restitution, you may be a candidate for expungement. Expungement means that the record of your conviction is erased, just as if it never occurred. Look for a lawyer that has specific experience dealing with expungement requests.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Me
The most important decision you will make if you are accused of a crime is the selection of your lawyer. When you are facing criminal charges, you need an expert criminal defense lawyer. Lawyer Tim Wintrode has many years’ experience, both as a prosecutor and as a criminal defense lawyer, and can use that experience to help you. Call today for a free consultation – (609) 294-8300.