You might be a protestor or someone who just doesn’t know that they have broken the law. Either way, committing a crime is a very serious offence and can lead to imprisonment. Once charged with a crime, you must receive legal advice from a solicitor. The job of a solicitor is to fight for the best possible outcome.
Warning: This is not an endorsement of crime; this piece simply explains why you need a solicitor and explains the implications of committing a crime.
When should I contact a solicitor?
You should contact a solicitor as soon as you have been accused of an offence. If possible, make sure that you contact a solicitor before you speak to the police so you can be told what to expect.
Tip: just so you know you are entitled to free legal advice while you’re in custody.
Below are five reasons why you need a solicitor if you commit a crime.
- Understanding the Legal Consequences
Having a solicitor is necessary when you commit a crime or plan to, specifically a criminal law solicitor. Without a solicitor, you will not fully understand the law/s you have broken and the legal ramifications of your actions.
Solicitors are there to explain the severity of your actions and make you aware of any consequences faced ahead.
So, if you need a solicitor make sure to do your due diligence and research solicitors near you, for example, if you are in Ipswich search for ‘Solicitors in Ipswich.’
Make sure to set time aside to do the research but don’t leave too late or the police will be knocking on your door.
- Legal Representation and Rights
If you have been arrested by the police you will want to know your rights. It might be that you have been unlawfully detained or arrested or that you have been mistreated in the process. Either way, having a solicitor is essential as they will explain to you what your rights are and will support you.
The solicitor will guide you as you take your next steps. Without a solicitor, there is a potential to end up with further legal troubles.
- Preventing Further Legal Trouble
Your solicitor will be able to advise you on avoiding additional charges. For example, if you choose to represent yourself in court, you will risk your case because you likely do not know the law and the legal process. Additionally, there is a chance that in court you will come across angry and upset when you are faced with the evidence and the charges. In court, everything you do, say and express could be held against you. And so, a solicitor will know how to ensure their clients receive a fair trial.
However, it must be said that it is unlikely that a solicitor will represent their client in court as in complex disputes they will arrange for barristers to appear in court on behalf of their clients.
- Emotional Support
Your solicitor will guide you through your interviews, providing crucial support during these stressful times. Facing criminal charges can be overwhelming, so it’s essential to rely on your solicitor, who will know what to do and say.
Their guidance is invaluable and could be the deciding factor in whether you are found guilty or innocent, as these interviews are often directly linked to the outcome of your case.
- Achieving the best results
By having a criminal defence lawyer you are ensuring you have the best possible outcome of your case. Hiring a well-established criminal defence lawyer will increase your chances of achieving a fair verdict.
Ultimately, picking the right solicitor could be a difficult task but it could make a difference to your future and career.
Final thoughts
Having the right criminal law solicitor can make the difference between being found guilty or innocent. A good solicitor will advocate on your behalf, provide guidance, and work to ensure the best possible outcome for your case, including minimising penalties. They will also help you avoid time in prison by negotiating with prosecutors for a reduced sentence or an alternative to imprisonment.
Moreover, your solicitor will be available to answer all your questions about the case and educate you on how the law applies to your situation. They will provide you with specific guidance on how to appear in court and what to say (and what not to say.) Additionally, they will keep you updated as your case progresses.
Committing a crime even by accident is a daunting thought but know that with a trustworthy and well-regarded solicitor, you will be in the best position to fight your case. For the best outcome, make sure that you are seeking legal advice as soon as possible.
OTS News on Social Media