Top Things That Can Hurt Your New York Criminal Case
If you are facing criminal charges in New York, it is understandable if you feel like things are out of your hands. Facing a criminal charge can be scary. However, while it is true that some things might be out of your control, there are some things that you can control. For instance, you have control over the steps you take. More precisely, you can avoid doing things that can hurt the outcome of your criminal case.
People do several things to hurt their criminal cases. You should avoid doing these things. Below, we discuss some of the top things you should avoid doing if you are facing criminal charges in New York that can hurt the outcome of your case.
#1: Not Hiring a Defense Attorney
Handling your criminal case without the help of a qualified criminal defense attorney is one of the worst things you can do if you do not have any legal background. While working with a criminal defense attorney does not guarantee that you will achieve a favorable outcome, it increases your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. You can trust that your New York criminal defense lawyer will work hard to get your charges reduced or dismissed. A skilled criminal defense attorney understands the criminal justice system and will know the best course of action to take. Even if you are innocent, retaining a qualified criminal defense attorney is in your best interest. A skilled attorney will protect your rights and help you develop a strong defense strategy.
#2: Speaking to the Police Without an Attorney Present
Usually, no good comes from speaking with the police without an attorney. While you might think that talking to the police is your chance to tell your side of the story, the truth is that anything you say to the police can be used against you. If you speak to the police without an attorney present, you could end up incriminating yourself. It is your right to remain silent and avoid self-incrimination, so make use of this right and only speak to the police when your attorney is present.
#3: Agreeing to Searches Without the Advice of an Attorney
If an officer does not have probable cause or a warrant, they might ask you to consent to a search. You should not consent to a search without speaking to an attorney first.
#4: Contacting Witnesses
You should not contact any witnesses. Any contact with a witness can be interpreted as an attempt to influence them. In New York, tampering with a witness is a criminal offense.
#5: Destroying Evidence
It is vital that you do not destroy evidence, be it physical or digital evidence. Do not burn or throw away items or delete emails or text messages. Tampering with evidence is a crime in New York.
#6: Lying to Your Defense Attorney
The only way to ensure your criminal defense lawyer gives you the best defense is for you to be honest with them. Remember, whatever you tell your defense attorney stays between you two. Conversations with your attorney are protected by the attorney-client privilege.
Contact Us for Legal Help
If you’ve been charged with a criminal offense in New York, contact our NYC criminal attorney, Mark I. Cohen.
