Charged With Theft? Get a Lawyer ASAP
Mistakes happen, but that doesn’t mean you deserve to go to jail. If you’ve been charged with a crime, it’s time to get an attorney. Here’s what you need to know.
If you’ve been charged with theft, it’s important to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney for the job As Soon As Possible (ASAP) to address the issues and handle the case for you. An attorney understands the charges, the elements of the different types of theft, defenses and mitigating factors considered to reduce the charges or penalties. There are several types of theft like fraud, petty theft, and grand theft. Your lawyer can help you achieve the best possible outcome in your case. Depending on the facts, sophistication and value involved, this could mean a dismissal, a civil compromise, diversion, a lesser charge or minimized consequences.
Don’t answer questions
In most cases, you may not want to answer any questions or volunteer information without first talking to your attorney. Often times, people think they can talk their way out of situations, but end up just providing additional information that negatively affects their defense. When faced with criminal charges never answer questions or provide information until your lawyer is with you and can advise you how and whether to respond. Remember that when you’re arrested, you may go into shock and may not be able to fully process what is happening and you may say things which do not help you. You’ll be susceptible to answer questions that you shouldn’t. Law enforcement is trained in interrogation techniques to get information from you. “Remaining silent” and requesting an attorney may be one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself when you’re under investigation, arrested or charged with a crime.
Be honest with your attorney
Your attorney is on your side. Remember that no matter what happens, your lawyer wants to help and defend you. Be honest and up front with your lawyer, They give the best advice and best defense for you based on what they know about the offense and you. Your attorney may handle the case completely differently and not have as good a result if he/she is not fully aware of all the facts and circumstances surrounding the allegations and you. Tell him/her what happened in detail, what were you thinking at the time, why did you do what you did, what is your background, do you have a prior record, are there any medical or psychological issues, what is your immigration status, what is your goal in this case, can you make restitution? These are some of the things the attorney needs to know in order to have a strategy to move forward in your case. Is the attorney dealing with a defense or is the goal to provide mitigating factors that would help resolve the case at a lesser level or alternative disposition. Your lawyer doesn’t judge you, he/she is trying to help you and needs your candid honesty about everything.
Don’t wait
When you’re arrested, be polite but indicate that you would like to talk with an attorney before making any statements. That is your right. An experienced criminal defense attorney understands the law, the procedures as well as the Courts and can figure out exactly what needs to be done to ensure the best possible outcome in your case.
