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attorney, police, rights, encounters

Never Waive Your Right to an Attorney

Welcome to the e-formant. I am an Indiana criminal lawyer and handle cases throughout the State. This week alone I have been in court on criminal cases in Tippecanoe County, Clinton County, Miami County, and White County. Over the past decade I have represented thousands of clients in Indiana criminal cases and have extensive jury trial experience, including winning acquittal at trials in Class A Felony and drunk driving cases.

Crucial things can happen in the early stages of a criminal investigation. Understanding your legal rights, and exercising them, can sometimes mean the difference between acquittal and conviction. Many people suspected of criminal activity make a huge mistake by thinking that they can handle the matter themselves. They waive their right to an attorney, consent to the illegal search of their car or home, and give incriminating statements to police who are highly trained in interrogation. You have the right to an attorney at all stages of a criminal investigation. Whether you are charged with a major felony, a DUI, or are a Purdue student charged minor consumption of alcohol, you should never waive your right to an attorney.

If you are a suspect in a crime, retaining a lawyer can prevent your future interrogation. If you are charged with a crime, you need an attorney prior to your Initial Hearing. At the Initial Hearing, the Judge will set strict deadlines to file certain motions, including a motion to suppress illegally obtained evidence. In most jurisdictions, including in the Tippecanoe County Courts, an attorney can obtain the Charging Information and Affidavit of Probable Cause, and begin preparing your defense, prior to the Initial Hearing.

If you are a suspect of a crime, or charged with a crime, winning your case starts with exercising your right to an attorney. You should never give a statement in a criminal investigation or appear in Court without an experienced criminal lawyer.