You are being investigated for possible involvement in a crime. What should you do? You might be tempted to handle the situation yourself, but it can be risky to do so alone. Here are five reasons to consider hiring a criminal defense attorney:
1. We know your rights. Thanks to the entertainment industry, most Americans are aware that they have the right to remain silent, and that anything they say can be used against them in a court of law. But you may not have known that there are certain questions that the law requires you to answer, such as basic questions about your name and age. And are you aware that you may unintentionally waive the right to silence after you have already refused to answer questions? A skilled criminal defense attorney will be by your side through the investigative process and can protect you from self-incrimination.
2. You need a witness to any statements to the police. Police are only human and do make mistakes. The police may not remember or record accurately what was said during your interaction with them. Without an independent witness to your statement, you have little chance of challenging what was actually said during your time with the police. One single word of your statement could result in your conviction. We know how to investigate cases and document your interaction with the police. The last thing you want is to be charged with is a crime that you did not commit.
3. We know how to mount a defense. The time to start your defense is not after you are charged. The police are out gathering evidence of the crime prior to charging you. Shouldn’t you have a law firm that does the same? If you are being prosecuted for a crime, do you know what type of evidence to collect in your defense? Do you need to contact an expert witness, or know who even qualifies as an expert witness? Do you know what the law does and does not allow in a courtroom? Being prosecuted is already overwhelming without having to research the Illinois Rules of Evidence or the Illinois Code of Criminal Procedure. You should engage a firm that has experienced attorneys and investigators to assist you at the beginning of the case instead of after you have been taken to Court and charged with a crime.
4. It is a defense attorney’s job to zealously represent their clients. Chose an attorney who does just that. The law provides us with many tools to help protect you. Investigations, witness interviews, subpoenas, and legal research by your attorneys can change the course of your life when faced with an investigation. Is the attorney you choose experienced in criminal law? Does he have the background and resources to assist you in an investigation? A police investigation can be a very scary thing. For most, thankfully, it is not something we experience everyday. If you find yourself in that position, choose an attorney who does do this everyday and can help you during this very important stage.
5. A criminal record has more than legal consequences. A record also comes with social and financial consequences. For example, it might prevent you from being hired for a job for which you are qualified. The best-case scenario is to avoid being charged with or convicted of a crime in the first place, and we can help with that. But, if you have been charged and subsequently convicted, it might be possible to clean your slate. A defense attorney can also talk to you about expunging or sealing your criminal record.
Our skilled criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Thomas Glasgow, Ltd. have years of experience handling cases just like yours. If you are being investigated for a crime, or if you have been charged with committing a crime, you are not alone. Contact us today for a consultation. We assist those in Chicago and its surrounding counties.