This is a common question asked by people who are convicted of a crime – whether the charge is as minor as shoplifting or theft, or as serious as rape or murder.
The answer is: absolutely not.
As Neal Davis, a Texas criminal defense attorney writes in his blog:
“The reality is that police often deal with suspects who have attorneys. In fact, officers themselves, when they are under criminal investigation, will often hire a criminal defense attorney to represent them.”
Law enforcement understands the importance of hiring a lawyer to represent their rights in a criminal investigation, and they expect people they are investigating to engage legal counsel as well.
Innocent People Need Lawyers Too
The mistaken belief that hiring an attorney will make you look guilty is flawed, in part, because individuals accused of a crime already look guilty – to law enforcement, coworkers, neighbors, family, friends, the general public, etc.
That’s just one reason innocent people need lawyers too.
Here are 5 other reasons to contact an attorney if you’ve been charged with a crime, according to Avvo:
- Investigate evidence. A skilled defense lawyer can often find loopholes in the prosecution’s argument and protect you against ruthless prosecutors who are willing to do anything to win a case (including forging evidence or coaching a witness).
- Filing documents. Your attorney will ensure that all the necessary legal paperwork is filled out correctly and that important courtroom materials are submitted on time.
- Decreasing penalties. As your legal representative, a lawyer can help secure a plea bargain and diminished sentencing in the event you are charged.
- Expert witnesses. Your attorney can bring in expert witnesses to testify in court on your behalf. Testimony from an expert is often the difference between conviction and acquittal.
- Avoid conviction. Hiring a criminal defense attorney can spell the difference between being convicted and having your case dismissed. A lawyer can keep the charge off your record and allow you to return to a normal life.
Your Future is in Your Hands
If you’ve been charged with a crime, the best thing you can do for yourself is contact a defense attorney immediately.
“Many times, if brought into a case early enough, a skilled criminal defense attorney can successfully resolve criminal investigations without charges ever being filed,” says Mr. Davis. “However, the burden is on a suspect to immediately contact these lawyers. Law enforcement certainly won’t do it for you!”