If you believe there is a criminal case open against you, you need to reach out to a lawyer as quickly as possible. You may feel like the facts of the case are on your side, but you never know what happens when you set foot inside of a courtroom. You may not always know that someone is building a criminal case against you, but if you do, you need an attorney who can advocate for your rights and protect your interests. There are some cases where an attorney may be able to prevent charges from being filed against you at all. On the other hand, after charges are filed, you might be wondering what happens next. What happens when you get charged with harassment? There are a few important points to keep in mind.
The Booking Process
After criminal charges are filed, the next step is to go through the booking process. You will be transported to jail, sometimes in a police car. Then, you will be photographed, fingerprinted, and sent to a holding area. The amount of time you will spend in the holding area will depend on the case docket and the time of day. If you reach out to a lawyer ahead of time, they might be able to schedule everything in advance. That way, they can time it so that you spend as little time in the booking area as possible.
Posting Bond
When your name is called, you will go before a judge. The judge will take a look at the circumstances of your case and decide whether you will be granted bail. If you are charged with a capital offense, such as murder, the judge may decide that you should be held without bond. On the other hand, there are situations where the offense might be so minor that the judge could release you without having to pay any bond at all, as long as you promise to come back for all of your court dates. Chances are, your bail will be somewhere in the middle. You will need to post bail before you get out of jail. Your lawyer may be able to refer you to a bail bondsman who can expedite the process and get you out faster.
Forming a Defense
Once you are out of jail, the next step is to form a defense. You will work with your attorney closely, reviewing all of the evidence against you. Then, your lawyer can decide what type of defense you want to pursue. For example, your lawyer may recommend that you pursue an affirmative defense, which means that you did not do it. Depending on the facts surrounding your case, there is a chance that the lawyer might be able to get your criminal case dismissed before it ever goes to trial. You need an objective professional who can help you, and that is why you always need to reach out to a lawyer.
Rely on a Lawyer Who Can Help You
No matter what the charges might be, the process is always stressful. Some charges are more serious than others, but even a misdemeanor can change your life forever. That is why you need to reach out to a lawyer who is familiar with the justice system. A criminal defense lawyer often has connections throughout the industry, including some on the other side of the bench. They can use those connections to control the narrative of your case, helping you form a strong defense. Even if you think the facts are on your side, you do not want to take any chances. Reach out to a lawyer who can help you defend yourself vigorously.
