You never know when you might be in the wrong place at the wrong time. You may have done something that wasn’t illegal but looked illegal to someone else, and that person reported you. Now, you’re detained and stuck with a criminal charge. This post will discuss how you should handle this situation.

Understand the Process

A criminal case is a rather involved process, so it helps to know the fundamentals:

• Your lawyer should act as your advocate and will make sure you’re taken care of.
• You may not be able to travel or leave the country to avoid prosecution.
• If you go to court, you’ll likely have a public defender who will help guide you through the process.

Your Rights During Trial

Even if you feel you have nothing to hide, it’s smart to know your rights as a suspect:

• Staying silent does not mean you’re admitting guilt.
• You have the right to confront your accusers and defend yourself in court.
• If you feel threatened or intimidated by someone who is questioning you, contact law enforcement immediately so they can investigate.
• It is your legal right to testify or not testify during the trial.

Your Rights While Out On Bail

When you’re incarcerated, bail bonds Berks County PA may be a viable option for you. One of the most important things a bail bond can do is give you time to get caught up with life. You’ll be free to go to work, run errands, and visit your family. You can also set aside time with your attorney so you can work on fighting your case.

Your Rights When Charged

Your goal should be freedom and exoneration, but you should also prepare for the worst-case scenario. If you’re found guilty, you still have rights. These rights may vary depending on what kind of crime you were charged with, but it’s important to understand them in a nutshell:

• You have the right to see evidence in your case including transcripts and witness statements.
• You have the right to speak to a probation officer or parole officer after being released from jail or prison.
• You have the right to file an appeal if you don’t want to plead guilty or no contest.
• If your conviction is reversed, then you could be found not guilty of the crime for which you were convicted.

A criminal charge is never a pleasant situation. It can be hard to think objectively, but knowing your rights may help you get through.