You face harsh punishments if you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony offense in Virginia and are convicted. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you mount a strong defense—even if you are guilty. However, they need your help to achieve the best outcome given your circumstances. Here are seven ways that you can assist your lawyer in defending you.
#1: Be Honest
It is crucial that you are 100 percent honest when discussing your situation with your lawyer. They cannot prepare an effective defense strategy unless they know all the important details in your case. You will make their job harder if you hide facts, and they discover them later from the prosecutor or at your jury trial.
#2: Provide Evidence
One big way that you can assist your lawyer is to collect evidence that supports your defense. Provide them with any documents they request or that you believe may be helpful, and as much information as possible about your alibi and other witnesses. Your lawyer can interview witnesses before deciding whether to have them testify and can subpoena them if they do not want to cooperate.
#3: Ask Questions
It is important that you know what to expect in your criminal case and understand your lawyer’s defense strategy. Ask questions if you are confused, or your lawyer is not keeping you informed. In addition, discuss your goals in your criminal case once you know what your options are.
#4: Don’t Talk to the Police
You should not talk to the police without your attorney being present. The police are looking for evidence they can use in prosecuting you. Remember that anything you say can be used against you in court.
#5: Stay Off Social Media
While your criminal case is being resolved, you should stay off social media sites, like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The prosecutor and police officers could search your social media more than once while your case is pending for incriminating statements you make. At a minimum, do not post about your criminal case or arrest on these sites.
#6: Attend All Court Hearings
It is crucial that you appear at any required court hearings and be on time for them. If you fail to attend court hearings, your bail could be revoked, and you would make a bad impression with the judge who will be sentencing you if you are found guilty.
#7: Follow Your Lawyer’s Advice
One of the best ways you can help your attorney defend you is to follow their advice. They are looking out for your interests and know the best ways you can achieve a favorable outcome. You make their job much harder when you ignore their advice, violate the terms of your release, or commit another crime.
Are you facing criminal charges in Virginia? Our knowledgeable criminal defense legal team is here to aggressively fight the charges you face. Start a live chat to schedule your free consultation today.
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