What to Do After an Arrest

Many individuals fail to realize that they have rights after an arrest. These rights are extremely important and should be defended at all costs in order to prevent incrimination and a wrongful conviction. Immediately following an arrest, you have the right to remain silent, as well as the right to an attorney. Be sure to defend these rights no matter what actions are taken against you.

Know Your Rights

By exercising your right to remain silent, you protect yourself from incrimination. The prosecution will try their best to take anything you say and use it against you, which is why you have every right to stay silent until you have the counsel of a criminal attorney. Law enforcement cannot force you to give a statement until you have an attorney by your side, although they may attempt to do so through persuasion or even threats. This is unlawful and can be used to your defense.

Your right to an attorney is also very important and should not be taken for granted. Even if you do not choose to retain private counsel (or if you cannot afford to do so), a public defender will be assigned to your case from the Public Defender's Office. This is far less desirable than private defense, however, since a public defender will have no personal interest in your defense. By hiring a criminal defense lawyer of your choice, you will have a say in the experience and skill of your attorney. That is why we encourage you to contact the offices of Smith Ortiz P.C. as soon as possible after your arrest.

How Our Firm Can Help

Smith Ortiz P.C. will provide the personal and aggressive legal representation that you need in order to maximize your defense. We analyze each client's case in detail so that we are able to fight their charges from every possible angle. Our attorneys have handled all sorts of criminal defense cases ranging from DUI and theft crimes to violent crimes and white collar crimes. Contact our firm today if you are facing charges and are in need of capable defense.

Find a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chicago

Waiting to hire an attorney after you've been arrested only raises your chances of incrimination. Defend yourself as much as possible by contacting our offices today to take advantage of a free case evaluation. You will be able to speak directly with an attorney and learn exactly how we can help before retaining a skilled member of our team. The sooner you hire a lawyer, the stronger your defense will be, so don't wait. Contact Smith Ortiz P.C. at your earliest convenience to discuss your defense options with a Chicago criminal defense lawyer and fight for your rights!