Can Hiring an Attorney Make You Look Guilty?

Working with a Lawyer After a Serious Accusation

Being accused of a crime can be both frightening and stressful. If you are charged and convicted of a criminal offense, your life can be forever changed. That is why it is important to protect your rights and hire a lawyer right away. But if you do hire a criminal defense lawyer, will that make the police think you are guilty?

If you have been accused of a crime, it is critical to speak with an attorney immediately. At Ridley Defense, we are dedicated to protecting the rights and freedoms of the accused. Our criminal defense lawyers in Ventura will work closely with you and advocate strongly on your behalf to secure the best possible outcome. To get started, call (805) 208-1866 today to schedule your complimentary consultation.

Does Hiring a Lawyer Make You Look Guilty?

The answer is no. While many people worry that hiring an attorney will make the police think they are guilty, it is simply not true. Investigators are fully aware you have the right to hire an attorney, as well as remain silent, and that doing either does not mean you are guilty of any wrongdoing. 

The fact of the matter is, if you are being questioned or interrogated by police in relation to a crime, the chances are pretty high they already consider you guilty. That presumption of guilt makes it all that much more necessary to retain legal counsel to protect your rights and best interests.

Should You Hire an Attorney?

Absolutely. Many people don’t hire an attorney right away, thinking that doing so will make the police believe they are guilty of a crime. However, going it alone and speaking to the police without an attorney present can have dire consequences.

Police use several tactics to get you to confess to a crime. In fact, you might be completely innocent of any wrongdoing but simply get confused or say something that could be misconstrued as a confession. It is always best to have an attorney by your side to tell you what you should and should not say and do during the process. Your attorney can also speak on your behalf and work with the police and prosecutors to avoid charges from being filed.

What to Do If You Have Been Accused of a Crime

If you are being investigated for a crime, you should immediately consult with an attorney. If the police have asked to question you about your alleged involvement in a criminal offense, it is always best to invoke your 5th Amendment right and decline to answer their questions. Politely tell the officers that you do not wish to speak with them and that you would like to speak with your attorney.

What NOT to Do If You Are Under Investigation

While hiring a criminal defense lawyer is the first thing you should do if you are being investigated for a crime, there are a handful of things you should NOT do in this situation. The following are a few things you should never do if you are facing criminal charges:

• Don’t speak to anyone about the alleged crime - Many individuals turn to family and friends when facing criminal charges. However, investigators can and likely will ask to speak to those close to you and ask them about any statements you have made. So it is important to resist the temptation to discuss the situation with your loved ones. Discuss the matter with your attorney and only your attorney.
• Stay off social media - With the wide use of social media in today’s world, the police will likely look you up on social media, combing through your posts and the posts of anyone close to you, looking for evidence against you. Stay off social media and never post details or photos relating to the incident.

Contact Our Team of Criminal Defense Attorneys to Learn More

There is so much on the line when facing serious criminal charges. That is why you need to do everything possible to protect yourself. And the first step in protecting yourself is hiring a skilled criminal defense lawyer. 

If you have been accused of or charged with a criminal offense, call Ridley Defense. Our experienced team of Ventura criminal defense attorneys are committed to protecting the rights of our clients and will do everything possible to have your charges reduced or dismissed. Contact us at (805) 208-1866 today to arrange a free, confidential consultation.