How to Help Yourself in a Criminal Case

Each year, thousands of people in Florida will be charged with a crime and will go on to hire a criminal defense attorney in Melbourne. Some people, when facing charges, rely on the state to provide legal representation, but more and more people are opting to hire a private law firm. If you have recently been charged with a crime, it’s probably a very scary and stressful time for you, and your loved ones. Regardless of the circumstances surrounding your criminal charges, you’re probably hoping for the best outcome possible, to allow you to move forward with your life.

Most people truly want to defend themselves from any accusations of a criminal nature, but sometimes this ends up backfiring in a legal setting. If you want to give yourself the best shot at a positive outcome in your criminal case, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Trust your attorney

There is a reason why you have a legal professional on your side, so it’s smart to sit back and let them do their job. Don’t interfere with the process, or try to talk over your attorney during any court proceedings. Criminal defense lawyers know what they’re doing, so just trust them to look out for your interests.

Stay quiet

Too often, people accused of crimes take to social media, email, or other platform to attempt to defend themselves. Or the flip side of the coin: they openly tell their friends and family members about the crimes they committed. Either way, whether you believe yourself guilty or not, it’s best to keep quiet. Don’t talk to people about your case. And don’t post anything online about the circumstances surrounding the event in question.

Be responsible

Criminal defense proceedings come with a list of rights and responsibilities for the defendant, so make sure you are clear on what is expected of you. Show up to your attorney meetings and court dates on time. Be dressed appropriately. Treat others with respect, including court clerks, law enforcement officers, and judges. Communicate promptly and clearly with your attorney when asked to.

Keep calm

Being accused of a crime is quite stressful, but do your best to take care of yourself so you can remain as calm as possible. Get extra sleep, drink extra water, and try techniques like meditation or exercise, so you can keep your cool and present yourself in the best light. Don’t lose your temper, raise your voice, or throw a tantrum.

Ready to work with an experienced Melbourne criminal defense attorney? Reach out to Harnage Law today and ask for your free consultation.