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Why is important to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible?

Why is important to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible

Facing misdemeanor or felony charges? If you’ve been charged with a crime in Kentucky, you need to act carefully and promptly in order to protect your legal rights. Do not speak to law enforcement or investigators without a criminal defense lawyer present.

The team at Mashni Law, PLLC has compiled a list of six things you should do or consider doing after you’ve been charged with a felony or misdemeanor. Perhaps the most important thing you can do is speak with a defense lawyer about what happened and what you should do next.

Do not delay. If you’ve been charged with a state or federal crime and have not sought out legal representation, Lexington criminal defense lawyer Abe Mashni is here to help. To request a free and completely confidential consultation, contact Mashni, PLLC Law today. You can also reach our law office by phone at (859) 201-3550.

1. Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent

Remember that anything you say or do can be used against you in a court of law. Avoid the risk of self-incrimination. Even if you want to explain yourself and your situation, you do not need to do so without a defense attorney present. Having a defense lawyer with you can help avoid saying something that could put your case in jeopardy.

Avoid Incriminating Yourself

Avoid speaking to the police or law enforcement about the details of your case and what happened. It’s also a good idea to avoid speaking with friends or family members about your case. While your loved ones may be trustworthy, sharing information with them could lead to details slipping out. Only speak with your defense lawyer about what happened, and check with your attorney about what you should and should not discuss with those close to you.

Whatever you do, never post about your charges on social media. Even if it’s a minor charge, posting about it is simply not worth it. A social media post about your charges may jeopardize your case and have serious consequences for your local reputation, current employment, and future career goals.

2. Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney as Soon as Possible

If you’ve been charged with a crime, you have a right to legal counsel. As soon as you can, be sure to find a criminal defense lawyer you can trust. Your defense attorney can explain the charges against you and review the penalties for these charges. Your defense lawyer can then discuss a strategy to help get your charges dropped or reduced.

Get the Insight of a Legal Professional

While working on your case, your defense attorney will be able to assist with communication with law enforcement, go over upcoming court proceedings, and help you prepare for any hearings, negotiations, or plea deals.

Some people avoid hiring their own defense lawyer because of the costs, but at Mashni Law, PLLC, we provide free case evaluations. You can get sound insight from an experienced defense attorney here in Lexington without having to worry about any initial fees.

3. Try to Understand the Charges Made Against You

While working with your defense lawyer, take time to learn about the charges against you and how they could affect your life. Whether it’s a misdemeanor or a felony, you can learn about the various penalties involved and what may work as an effective strategy to get the charges dropped or reduced.

Consequences Beyond Legal Penalties

Criminal charges mean more than jail time and fines. Your defense attorney can also explain the collateral consequences of a criminal conviction. This refers to the different ways a conviction on your criminal record can affect your future. A criminal conviction could mean difficulties finding a job, pursuing a college education or advanced degree, getting a professional license, or finding good housing.

At Mashni Law, PLLC, we can make sure clients see the full picture. We’ll carefully explain your charges, how a conviction could impact your reputation, and the best way to represent your side of the story to authorities.

4. Attend All Court Dates Without Fail

Make sure to attend all mandatory court dates. Your defense lawyer can help review what those dates are, what to expect during your hearings, and help you prepare for any court appearances. Just knowing what to expect provides many clients with some peace of mind.

Arraignment and Consequences for Missing Your Arraignment

At your arraignment hearing, for instance, the charges against you will be formally read. You will also be able to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Bail or bond may also be discussed at this time.

Do not skip your arraignment. Missing an arraignment could lead to a bench warrant for your arrest, increased or revoked bond, and additional criminal charges.

5. Comply with Your Release Conditions

It’s very important that you stay out of trouble and comply with all pre-trial conditions upon release. This is particularly true if you are released on bail or bond. Be diligent about any no-contact orders, mandatory drug testing, or check-ins with officials.

Try to Stay Out of Trouble

In addition, avoid any actions that could result in further criminal charges against you. Even a minor crime or infraction could have an impact on your criminal case. If you are unsure about what is required of you, ask your pre-trial officer or your defense attorney for answers.

This is another reason why it’s so important to hire a criminal defense lawyer ASAP. A defense attorney like Abe Mashni can provide insight into your situation and help keep you out of unexpected trouble.

6. Save All Documents and Correspondence Related to Your Case

While your case is underway, be sure to make copies of all documents and relevant correspondence. Hold on to all paperwork, any notices from the court, and all emails and voicemails with your defense lawyer.

Stay Organized as Your Case Unfolds

If your attorney asks for any documents, you can present them quickly, which can help your case. While your defense lawyer will likely keep their own copies of important documents, staying organized can give you peace of mind.

It may also be helpful to take notes for yourself for future reference. This includes any relevant dates or deadlines, the conditions of your release, and any other information for your defense lawyer or law enforcement.

7. Take Time to Check in With Yourself and Your Loved Ones

Being charged with a crime can be one of the most stressful chapters in someone’s life. Amid all of the legal proceedings and meetings with your defense lawyer, be sure to take time to check in with yourself and the people close to you. This can go a long way toward keeping you focused while your case unfolds.

Get Professional Help When Necessary

If you have any underlying issues, such as substance abuse or a history of mental health struggles, now may be the time to address them. Many people seek professional care or assistance while they’re facing charges, and there is no shame in seeking help.

For those not sure where to turn or how to start getting professional assistance, Mashni Law, PLLC has a wealth of resources to steer you in the right direction. It’s our way to help clients, and it may get you thinking about your life outside of the charges and the courtroom.

Why You Need Abe Mashni as Your Defense Lawyer

When going up against the state of Kentucky, you need a skilled defense lawyer who will advocate for you. Abe Mashni and his team bring years of legal experience to every case as well as a dedication to absolute fairness in criminal law.

We View You as a Person, Not a Criminal

Every individual deserves a fair defense. At Mashni Law, PLLC, we will not pre-judge you, regardless of what charges you are facing. We know that you are a person, not a criminal charge. It’s our way of making sure the justice system functions as intended and that people’s rights are upheld, no matter what.

We’re Committed to Serving the People of Kentucky

While we cannot guarantee a particular outcome in your criminal case, the team at Mashni Law, PLLC ensures every client receives our steadfast focus. We have an unwavering and relentless dedication to the people of Lexington and communities throughout Kentucky, including:

  • Fayette County
  • Scott County
  • Jessamine County
  • Madison County
  • Bourbon County
  • Clark County
  • Woodford County
  • Franklin County

We’ll make sure you get a fair hearing, your voice is heard, and that your rights were not violated.

We’re Available to Clients at All Times

Kentucky law enforcement doesn’t just operate Monday through Friday during normal office hours. Neither do we. Mashni Law, PLLC doesn’t just work from 9-5. We provide our contact information to clients and are accessible whenever needed. When questions or concerns arise, we will provide answers and offer context.

We’ll Give You the Good News and the Bad News

You deserve straight answers when you’ve been charged with a crime. At Mashni Law, PLLC, our team will always be honest with you. Whether it’s giving great news or bad news, you deserve to hear it. We will deliver that information to you promptly and offer any additional insight that we can.

We Handle State and Federal Charges

Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or felony charge, we will provide you with a robust and sound defense. Mashni Law, PLLC can represent you if you’ve been charged with any of these offenses:

Get the Help You Need: Contact Mashni Law, PLLC for a Free Consultation

Do not delay. The sooner you act, the sooner we can determine the best course of action and defense strategy. We’re ready to answer any further questions you may have. For a free consultation with an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Central Kentucky, contact Mashni Law, PLLC today. You can also reach our Lexington, KY defense firm by calling (859) 201-3550.