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Johnson County, KS and surrounding areas including: Wyandotte, Miami, Franklin & Douglas Counties
Gilby & Haynes Law Firm, LLP
When you have been accused of a crime, you have rights under the law. Until you speak with an attorney at Gilby & Haynes Law Firm, LLP, you can protect yourself by avoiding these common mistakes when you are questioned by the authorities.
9 common mistakes to avoid when involved in a criminal matter:
1. Allowing a search or seizure when the police come to your home or work.
Do not give the police permission to do this unless they present proper credentials and a search warrant. Read the complete search warrant to determine the scope and ask to watch the search proceedings.
2. Giving a voluntary statement.
You are not required to talk to police when they come to talk to you about a crime. You have the right to remain silent - which is what you should do until you speak to an attorney.
3. Not being polite and courteous with police.
Don’t give them a reason to escalate the situation and use force on you.
4. Resisting arrest.
Being uncooperative during an arrest will only hurt your case.
5. Voluntarily giving samples of body fluids, fingerprints, handwriting, clothing.
With few exceptions, you don’t have to give officers these items without a court order or your attorney’s permission.
6. Taking a polygraph or lie-detector test.
Even if you pass it, this test is not admissible in court.
7. Failing to ask if you are under arrest.
If the officers say yes, you have the right to know why.
8. Not telling your lawyer all the facts.
Your lawyer can’t give you the best representation if he doesn’t know all the facts about the case. When you’re honest with your lawyer he can do a better job at protecting your interests.
9. Choosing a lawyer who is not experienced in criminal law or with handling trials.
Criminal charges can have serious current and future consequences. Choosing an experienced and skilled lawyer can have a tremendous effect on the outcome of your case.
You can take the first step to protecting yourself, when you call Gilby & Haynes Law Firm, LLP today at 913-451-4LAW (4529).
