With all of the stress, fear, and uncertainty that comes with being charged with a crime, being unsure of if or when to get a criminal lawyer in Snohomish County will only add to your distress. Should you ever find yourself in this position, this blog post will provide you with some guidance.
Immediate Actions
If you have been arrested or charged with a crime in Snohomish County, these are some of the things people are encouraged to do or not do.
Seek Legal Counsel Immediately
Contacting a defense lawyer as soon as you are aware of the charges against you is your first step.
Wait to Speak to the Police
Anything you say can be used against you in a court of law, which is why speaking to a lawyer before you say anything to the police is considered best practice across the board.
Beyond your name, address, and birthday, hold off on offering any other information until you talk to your lawyers.
Note, remaining silent and lying are two different things. Remaining silent until your attorney is present (beyond sharing basic information) is not a crime. In fact, it is your constitutional right.
However, lying to the police can be a crime and could lead to obstruction charges.
Understanding Your Charges
A good criminal lawyer makes sure you understand the potential consequences of the charges you’re up against.
They also will explain the legal options available to you. Your criminal attorney can answer your questions and take the time you need to explain everything what’s happened and what to expect
When to Call a Lawyer in WA: Why Timing Matters
The sooner you engage a criminal attorney, the more time they have to prepare a defense. This could potentially affect the outcome of your case. It also means they can give you the best advice from the get-go about how to proceed and what to say.
Phil Wakefield’s Proactive Criminal Defense Strategy
Phil Wakefield’s proactive approach involves meticulously preparing every aspect of your case so you have the best possible defense from the start. Rather than letting the chips fall where they may, Phil fights relentlessly to maintain control of the case.
Hire a WA Criminal Lawyer
If you’ve been charged with a crime in Washington, don’t wait to hire legal representation. Contacting a seasoned professional like Phil Wakefield can significantly impact the outcome of your case, and in turn, your future.
Call now for a free consultation to discuss the details of your charges.
