No one wants to get arrested or even get involved in a legal case. People want to fight till the last moment to avoid going to jail and often end up making mistakes during the arrest, which can significantly harm them. It does not matter what the reason for your arrest may be; you must not do or say something wrong as it may be recorded and used against you in court.
If you have been arrested for a felony or misdemeanor, contact a law office in Syracuse, NY, to consult with a qualified criminal attorneys and explore your options. A criminal lawyer will be able to represent you in front of a judge or jury far better than you ever could.
Top mistakes to avoid if you have been arrested
- Pleading guilty.
You may think admitting guilt will get you on the good side of the police officer, and they may let you go. However, all it does is ruin your case. Police officers may note down or record any statements made by you during the arrest. Therefore, this only creates more evidence against you. It is a wise choice not to share anything more than your basic information, such as your name, address, and phone number.
- Resisting arrest.
Resisting arrest or trying to flee from the police will only further weaken your case. Moreover, resistance can cause the police to put additional charges on you, and they may even use force to retain you, resulting in injuries. Remaining calm and polite during the arrest is very important for your case. Remember that nothing you say will make the officers not arrest you. Therefore, it is safer to stay quiet and ask your lawyer to handle the case.
- Admitting guilt to other people.
Keep in mind that everything that you do or say after being arrested gets recorded. Discussing the incident with your friends and family and admitting guilt during phone calls or text conversations can be harmful to your case.
- Posting on social media.
Social media is a great platform for sharing news with your friends and family. Still, you should refrain from posting any information about your arrest, photographs, videos, or your concerns regarding your charges. Most importantly, no matter how private your social media account may be, do not make posts regarding admitting guilt.
- Not seeking professional help.
One of the silliest and common mistakes people make is thinking that they can handle such cases without an attorney. Legal matters can take weeks, if not months, to settle without professional help. With a skilled lawyer by your side, you can rest assured that they will prepare the strongest defense for you.
