How to Know You Need an Oklahoma City Criminal Defense Attorney

Facing criminal charges can be terrifying. The prosecution will try to scare you by telling your sentence. They want to take a plea deal. This can result in dealing with stressful thoughts. But you do not need to face the situation on your own. A skilled attorney at a reputable Oklahoma City Criminal Defense Law Firm can be on your side to help you build a strong defense. 

Criminal cases may result in consequences you probably do not know. For instance, a drug charge can result in a custody case. Also, you may have immigration problems. When it comes to criminal cases, one situation can easily lead to another. Having an attorney by your side helps you avoid these consequences. 

It may be time to reach out to a defense attorney if you notice any of the following signs:

You are Facing a Criminal Charge

If law enforcement has charged you with a criminal offense, you may want to contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Your attorney can sit with you during questioning by the police. This makes sure your rights are protected. Do not speak with any person until your attorney is present. 

You Want to Win the Case

As a criminal case defendant, you are allowed to have a public defender. But public defenders have many cases to handle. They may not have the time they can devote to your case. Usually, they have no choice but to accept plea deals to avoid the stress of a trial. 

If you refuse a public defender, you need to give your own defense. Appearing in court without an attorney will put you at a disadvantage. It may not go quite well. Defending a criminal case requires lots of research, understanding of the law, and experience. Hiring a reliable defense lawyer is a smart decision that usually produces the best outcome. 

You are Being Investigated by the Police

The majority of people trust law enforcement officers have their best interest in mind. But this is a mistake. These officers have an obligation to enforce the law, not take care of you. Sadly, prisons and jails are filled with people who give statements to the police without an attorney present. 

Keep in mind that whatever you say to the police can be used against you in court. When you say the wrong thing, the police can build a strong criminal case against you. Your lawyer will be your legal confidante. They can keep your word and advise you on what you should say when you say during police questioning and in a trial. 

You Could be Jailed

Time behind bars is something you cannot take lightly. No matter how short your possible jail time may be, it can ruin your life. Working with a defense lawyer helps you avoid jail if possible. An attorney knows the importance of time in criminal cases. They understand that prosecutors may work with them to hopefully avoid more future work. They can use this when negotiating in court. If jail time is possible, your lawyer can work to obtain a shortened sentence or secure credit for time served. 

Your Possessions Have Been Searched

A lot of people believe they do not have anything to hide if they are not guilty. But such assumptions can get you jailed. Although the police cannot search your house without a warrant, this does not mean you do not have legal rights. Your lawyer will make sure the police will not violate your rights and that they follow the law that governs property searches. 

If the police are conducting a search in your house, vehicle or workplace, call an attorney right away. Remember that you can get caught up in a criminal case unknowingly, putting your freedom in jeopardy.