Know Your Rights if You Have Been Arrested and Charged With a Crime

 Posted on January 15, 2021 in Criminal Defense

Being accused of a crime can be a shocking and overwhelming experience to go through. Whether you were charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI), possessing illicit drugs, theft, a weapons crime, or another offense, you have rights. Knowing your rights is a crucial component of avoiding self-incrimination and building a strong defense against the charges. A skilled criminal defense lawyer can help you understand your legal options after being arrested and charged with a crime. Your lawyer can also ensure that your rights are not violated during the proceedings.

Remain Silent to Avoid Incriminating Yourself

Anyone who has watched a police television show has heard the recitation of the Miranda Rights. Among the rights listed in the Miranda Warning is the right to remain silent. Many people underestimate how crucial this right actually is. By staying silent, you avoid accidentally saying something that may be used against you during and in future criminal proceedings. Police are permitted to use various strategies to get criminal defendants to talk – including lying. Do not allow police to interrogate you without an attorney present. Remain silent and ask for your lawyer.

Sixth Amendment Rights

The Sixth Amendment to the United States Constitution also gives the accused several important rights. You have the right to legal representation by an attorney. This right is afforded to every criminal defendant – regardless of his or her financial resources. You also have a right to a “speedy trial.” Of course, criminal trials can take months or years to complete. However, a case cannot be delayed unconstitutionally. Another important right provided by the Sixth Amendment is the right to confront your accuser and any witnesses participating in the trial. Your lawyer can fulfill this important right by cross-examining the accuser and/or witnesses and finding weaknesses in the case against you.

Contact a Raleigh, NC Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you or a loved one have been accused of a crime, you need a lawyer who can protect your rights and provide trustworthy legal guidance and representation. Contact one of the skilled Wake County criminal defense attorneys at Vasquez Law Firm, PLLC. Our qualified team knows what you are up against. We can investigate the circumstances of the alleged crime, gather evidence to build your case, and provide reliable legal advice and aggressive representation. Call our office today at 1-844-YO-PELEO or 844-967-3536 to schedule your free, confidential consultation. Hablamos Español.

Source:

https://constitution.congress.gov/browse/essay/amdt5_4_8_1_1/