Common Questions After an Arrest
As criminal defense attorneys, we speak with clients and potential clients on a daily basis. We have heard thousands of questions, and many have been asked repeatedly. There are things that most people wonder after being charged with a crime and taken into custody. This is especially true of people who have never been arrested before.
Being charged with a crime is a stressful event. Whether or not you have actually committed the crime, you could be in for months or years of dealing with the criminal justice system. Here are some of the questions that we hear most often.
1. Should I just plead guilty and avoid a trial?
In many cases, it is not a good idea for people to plead guilty simply to avoid a trial. Pleading guilty can be beneficial if the case against you is strong and you have been offered a deal, but otherwise, it can be one of the biggest mistakes of your life. When a person has been charged with a crime, they should at least consult with a criminal defense attorney before they make any decisions that could have serious consequences.
2. Can I trust a public defender?
It is a reality that not everyone can afford an attorney. In some cases, a person is assigned a public defender. These professionals have a stigma of being “less” than an attorney that people pay for out-of-pocket. Most public defenders are very bright attorneys who provide excellent service to their clients. If a person determines that the public defender assigned to them is not working to their best of their ability, the defendant may request a new attorney. But, because public defenders have so many cases and not a lot of time for yours, it may be best to hire a private attorney if at all possible.
3. Can I get a new lawyer after I already hired one?
A criminal defense attorney who you have hired is working for you. If you don’t feel as though they are doing their best, you can certainly fire them and find a new attorney. This should only be done after careful consideration. Firing an attorney midway through your case could be detrimental. Firing an attorney after a case has begun should only be done in few instances.
4. When will I be presented with my charges?
When you have been taken into custody, the prosecutor generally has 72 hours to file your charges. In some jurisdictions, this must happen even faster. It is important to know that your original charges may change after a preliminary hearing.
It’s not unusual to have questions after being arrested. The worst thing you can do is put your head in the sand and ignore the situation. Most attorneys will offer a free initial consultation and answer questions that you have. Take advantage of these free consultations and get more information.
If you have been arrested for a crime in Orlando, reach out to our team of criminal defense attorneys. We will review the details of your arrest and help you determine the best way to move forward with your defense. Call our office today and schedule an appointment for a free case evaluation. You may also choose to browse our website for more information about our firm and the types of cases we have successfully handled.