5 THINGS TO AVOID WHEN YOU ARE FACING CRIMINAL CHARGES

New York State is notoriously tough on crime. Whether you or a loved one has been charged with a misdemeanor or a felony – the stakes are high in New York and each can result in fines, incarceration, and much more.

If you or a loved one has been charged with a crime in New York, The Law Offices of Michael H. Ricca P.C. can help you get the most favorable outcome possible. This begins with helping you avoid making certain mistakes that can worsen your circumstances or be used against you in a court of law. Below, we explain the 5 things you should avoid doing if you are facing criminal charges in New York.

THE 5 THINGS YOU SHOULD AVOID DOING

Being charged with a crime in New York State is overwhelming. This is especially true given the high stakes that come with a New York criminal conviction. The actions below should be avoided if you are facing criminal charges.

1.     Trying to Convince the Police You Are Innocent

One of the most common mistakes people make when being charged with a crime is speaking to the police. For some, it may sound crazy not to attempt to prove your innocence to the police in the hopes that they move their attention elsewhere. But this is not the case.

You have a legal obligation to provide the police with your name. If you are caught acting in a suspicious manner, you are not obligated to tell them what you are doing in that specific moment. Aside from stating your name, the only thing you should say to police in an interrogation-like setting is short and simple: “I want a lawyer.”

If you are innocent, you may wonder why you should immediately ask for a lawyer. After all, you have nothing to hide. However, any mistake you make during your chat with police can be misconstrued. For example, if you mix up your dates and say you were with your aunt all day Sunday, when you were actually with her Saturday – the police may take a harder look at you believing you had intentionally misled them. Police are also notoriously good at tricking people into false confessions. This is especially true for juveniles, the elderly, and those who are mentally disabled or ill. Do not risk your future – ask for a lawyer before you make any statements to police!

2.     Talking About the Case with Others

When it comes to a criminal investigation, you can never be sure anything you say will remain confidential. It is essential that you avoid talking about your case with anyone. Why?

Confiding in someone puts him or her in a legal bind. Whether you are admitting to a crime or pleading your innocence, anything you say can be used against you. But it can be used against your friends and family too. Threats from police about “obstruction of justice” and other such crimes can mean those you hold closest may have to choose between keeping your secrets and facing charges themselves. Not only is this an unfair burden on them, but it can lead to your conviction as well.

In addition to this, these individuals can be called on by the prosecution to testify against you. Even if you simply remembered a detail you forgot to tell police about your innocence, the prosecution can twist this to make you appear like a liar in court.

3.     Posting About the Case on Social Media

Just like talking to others, posting about your case on social media can be used against you. Whether your posts are public or private, law enforcement and prosecutors have ways of obtaining the information you post. And, just like talking about your case in person, social media posts can make you appear guilty as well.

4.     Failing to Show Up To Court

Court dates are a required part of your criminal proceedings. Failure to show up to them can not only make you appear guilty, but it will likely result in a warrant for your immediate arrest. If you have posted bail, this could mean your bail will be revoked and you will have to spend the rest of your time in jail while awaiting trial.

5.     Not Seeking Experienced, Dedicated Legal Counsel

The courts are required to provide you with a public defender if you are facing criminal charges and cannot afford private counsel. However, doing so can seriously endanger the outcome of your case.

Hiring your own dedicated, experienced, and qualified attorney is essential to having the most favorable outcome. Public defenders are overworked and not able to provide you with the one-on-one attention that your case truly needs and that you deserve. For many, they just want you to plea so they can move onto their next case. This is not true with private counsel; dedicated lawyers work tirelessly to support their clients, prepare them for court, and protect their interests. They provide an entirely different experience than a public defender is able to. Why increase the risk of a conviction of your criminal charges which can have lifelong consequences impact your life with a public defender?

THE LAW OFFICES OF MICHAEL H. RICCA P.C.

The Law Offices of Michael H. Ricca P.C. truly understands what is at stake for each of our clients. Known for our experience, knowledge, and tenacity – we use our carefully honed skills to fight for you.

Above, we have given you advice on what not to do if you are charged with a crime. However, that is just the tip of the iceberg. As your dedicated legal counsel, we can help you understand the full journey you are about to embark on once those charges have come to light. If you have not yet been charged with a crime but believe you will be, we can help you prepare for that as well. From discussing the evidence against you, preparing for your court dates, and helping you understand the likely outcome based on the specifics of your case, we are here to help you through this trying time.

If you or a loved one has been charged with a crime in New York, contact The Law offices of Michael H. Ricca P.C. today for your free consultation!