How To Fight A Felony Charge
Of all the criminal charges you can face, a felony charge is the most serious type. Being convicted of a felony can result in harsh consequences that could change your life. So if you are facing a felony charge, you must take the situation seriously. You should take the necessary steps to fight your felony charge.
If facing a felony charge in New York, you may wonder what steps you can take to reduce your chances of facing the serious consequences of a felony conviction. The following are some things you can do to fight your New York felony charge;
Understand The Charges You Are Facing
The first thing you need to do that can enable you to fight your felony charge is to understand what felony charge you are facing. This includes a Class A, B, C, D, or E felony charge. Also, it is vital that you keep in mind that felonies carry harsh potential consequences.
Use Your Right To Remain Silent
You have the right to refuse to incriminate yourself in a criminal case. In other words, it gives you the right to choose not to answer police questions. After being arrested and charged with a felony, it is in your best interest to utilize this right. Remember, anything you say to the police can be misinterpreted and used against you. When the police start questioning you, politely request that they stop questioning you until you have your attorney present.
Write Down Everything You Remember
After being charged with a felony, you should write down the facts of your case. Your written account of what happened can come in handy when your memory is not fresh anymore.
Remember, the prosecution begins documenting everything about your case when you are arrested to build a strong case against you. It is only fair that you also prepare your information.
Contact an Attorney Immediately
This is one of the most crucial things you can do after getting arrested and charged with a felony offense. An attorney can help you understand which police questions you should answer, which you should avoid answering, and how to respond. A defense attorney can help you understand and exercise your rights. An attorney can also help you develop a strong defense strategy.
Tell Your Attorney the Truth
Many people are afraid of telling their criminal defense attorneys the truth because they feel that the information they share with their attorney could adversely affect their case. Regardless of how bad you think a piece of information is, it is crucial that you share that information with your criminal defense attorney. When your attorney knows the truth, they can prepare adequately. If your lawyer finds out negative details about your case in court from the other side, they may be unable to help you.
Avoid Discussing Your Case With Family or Friends
Lastly, you should avoid talking about your case with family or friends. Confidentiality rules protect the conversations you have with your criminal defense lawyer. However, your discussions with your family and friends are not protected. What you tell other people can be used against you.
Contact an NYC Criminal Defense Attorney
If you are facing a felony charge in New York, contact the skilled and dedicated NYC criminal defense attorney, Mark I. Cohen, at 212-732-0002.
Source:
law.cornell.edu/wex/self-incrimination
