If you or your loved one is currently facing a criminal charge in Brooklyn, you may be wondering when you need to hire an attorney. There are a lot of things for you to consider when it comes to hiring a Brooklyn Criminal Attorney, typically the most common consideration is cost. It is no surprise that hiring the services of an attorney can be expensive, but you should also know, in many cases, the sooner you hire an attorney, the less expensive it can be. Here is some more information that you should keep in mind before hiring a Brooklyn criminal attorney:
Sooner Is Better
Ideally, it would be nice to have a lawyer on your side as soon as you become arrested, but this is definitely not very practical. As soon as you can, when facing a criminal charge, you should tell law enforcement that you want an attorney. It is always best if you do not speak to police until you have an attorney on your side.
In many cases, you will be let out of holding after an arrest and you will be given a date for your arraignment hearing. This is where you and your lawyer will enter your plea. You will enter guilty, not guilty or no contest and you definitely will need a lawyer for this process. Not only can they enter your plea for you, but they will be able to advise you on the best course of action. The arraignment can happen quickly, typically within a day or two of arrest.
Speak To Your Lawyer Before The Process Begins
Meeting with a lawyer before your arraignment is imperative. This will give you a chance to talk about your options and to better understand the charges that are being brought against you. On top of that, your attorney will be able to tell you what type of sentence you could receive by pleading guilty or not guilty. You will have a chance to weigh the pros and cons of both choices.
Facing a criminal charge is not an easy process, but by making sure you have a qualified lawyer on your side, you will be able to make the process a bit more simple, a bit easier and much less stressful than going at it on your own.
