Being convicted of a criminal offence can have a disastrous impact on your life. Not only are you likely to face a jail sentence, but you may also find it difficult to get a job or travel abroad. That’s why it’s important to make sure that you avoid making any mistakes during your criminal defence case. In this blog post, we will discuss five of the most common mistakes made by defendants and how to avoid them.
Mistake 1: Not Hiring a Criminal Defence Attorney
One of the most common mistakes made by defendants is not hiring a criminal defence attorney. If you are facing criminal charges, it is essential that you hire an experienced criminal solicitor in London, UK to have them assist with your case. Not only will they be able to provide you with expert legal advice, but they will also be able to ensure that your rights are protected throughout the criminal justice process.
Mistake 2: Relying on the Police for Advice
Another mistake made by defendants is relying on the police for advice. Many people mistakenly believe that the police are there to help them, when in reality, the police are there to investigate and gather evidence against you. If you are arrested, it is important that you ask for a solicitor immediately and do not say anything until they arrive.
Mistake 3: Not Disclosing All Relevant Information to Your Solicitor
If you have been arrested and charged with a crime, it is important that you disclose all relevant information to your solicitor. Many defendants make the mistake of withholding information from their solicitor, thinking that it will make their case weaker. However, this is not the case. Your solicitor needs to know everything in order to build the best possible defence for you.
Mistake 4: Making Incriminating Statements
Nothing can be more damaging to your case than making incriminating statements. If you are arrested, you have the right to remain silent. It is important that you exercise this right and say nothing until you have spoken to a solicitor. Anything that you say can and will be used against you in court, and this is not just a line you hear in movies.
Mistake 5: Not Fully Cooperating with Your Solicitor
Guilty or not, you need to be ready to fully cooperate with your solicitor. This means being honest about everything, providing them with all relevant information, and attending all meetings and court appearances. If you do not cooperate with your solicitor, it will make it very difficult for them to build a strong defence on your behalf.
Final Thoughts
Avoiding these five mistakes will go a long way in helping you to avoid a conviction. If you have been charged with a crime, it is important that you seek legal advice from an experienced criminal defence solicitor as soon as possible. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action and help to build a strong defence on your behalf. So, if you have been charged with a crime, don’t wait, contact a criminal defence solicitor today.
