Facing criminal charges is a difficult experience, and what you do next can have an immense impact on both your case and your life. That could include losing your job or going to jail.
Having an experienced criminal defence lawyer in Brampton will make you better prepared to navigate the process. That includes avoiding certain mistakes that could jeopardize your defence.
So, what are these common mistakes and how can you avoid them? Let’s find out!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When You’ve Been Charged with a Crime by a Criminal Defence Lawyer in Brampton
As an experienced criminal defence lawyer, I see defendants make these mistakes time and time again. Find out what they are and avoid them.
1. Resisting Arrest
No one wants to be arrested. But it’s never a good idea to fight back when law enforcement authorities apprehend you. Any resistance can work against you and may lead to further charges.
So try to remain calm in the hopes that the police will remain calm throughout the process. If you think they have violated your rights and/or used unnecessary force, you can discuss it in detail with your lawyer.
2. Volunteering Information
Do not make any statements to the police even if you think it may help you. Say nothing.
Even if you feel like you are simply telling the police your side of the story, you may end up incriminating yourself. Remember, any law enforcement authority present at the scene of the crime will be on the lookout for such statements and may indeed ask leading questions. In that case politely decline to answer such questions and request instead that a lawyer be present when you provide any statements.
3. Putting Off Hiring a Lawyer
People facing criminal charges often make the mistake of putting off hiring a criminal defence lawyer to protect their rights. Perhaps they believe that their charges will simply disappear. Regardless of whether you believe the evidence will prove your innocence or that your charges are fraudulent, there is no circumstance where you should move forward without proper legal representation. While the evidence may be on your side, hiring a criminal defence lawyer right away is your best chance to prove your innocence. By waiting, you will have less time to prepare your defence, which, in turn, may damage your case.
4. Sharing Information on Social Media
Many of us use social media platforms and most of those people post some form of private information. That’s the nature of these platforms. That’s why it’s one of the first places investigators search for evidence to damage your case during criminal proceedings. (Here’s how they do it.) That’s why it’s best not to discuss your case or any important information related to the same on such platforms.
Remember, it’s never okay to post, especially if it has to do with your case. Instead, take a break from social media until your case is resolved. Also, don’t assume that sharing information privately with your friends and/or family can’t be traced by law enforcement authorities or the prosecutor.
5. Withholding Information from Your Lawyer
Your criminal defence needs to know all the facts to plan your defence. By not providing the whole story, you only make their job more difficult. Even if you may feel ashamed, tell them everything. This is the only way they’ll be able to help you.
Facing criminal charges is never easy, but you can make it easier on yourself by avoiding these common mistakes. If you’ve been charged with a crime in Ontario, the first thing you should do is contact a good criminal defence lawyer to get the representation you deserve. This is your best chance of defending your rights and getting a successful outcome. A qualified lawyer will do their best to safeguard your rights, but you need to avoid making costly mistakes while they come up with an aggressive defence.