Top Five Most Common Mistakes That People Make After Being Arrested

New Jersey Criminal Attorneys

Talking too much to the police, resisting arrest, and self representation -- these are just a few of the most common mistakes that New Jersey criminal attorneys often come across.

Being arrested can be a terrifying experience, and it’s no wonder that people panic in a situation like this. However, the minutes and hours after an arrest can be crucial to your defense. These are some mistakes people make that can jeopardize their case and diminish their chances of a successful defense:

1. The biggest mistake that people make is believing that their case is hopeless. When you’re being handcuffed and your Miranda rights are being read out you, it can seem like the end of the world, but it's important to remember that there are legal remedies in our justice system that could be applied to you. Only an experienced New Jersey criminal attorney can determine what kind of trouble you are in.  However, that doesn't mean that you should be blasé about your arrest. You have to take your arrest seriously, because it is a serious matter.
2. Don’t waste the single phone call you get to make from jail.  Call an attorney if you have one or a close family member who can call a lawyer for you.
3. Don’t panic. Remember that any statements or confessions that you make will be used against you later. Try to stay calm and quiet.
4. Don’t represent yourself without thinking long and hard about it first. A New Jersey criminal lawyer is not needed for every minor charge. However, in the majority of cases, you will need a criminal lawyer to represent you. Representing yourself when have been charged with a drug crime or even DWI can be foolish. Unless you are a lawyer or legal expert, you will find it hard to navigate the complex maze of legal statutes and rules that govern your case. A single mistake could prove costly.
5. Do choose your attorney carefully. Important factors to consider include the criminal defense attorney’s experience, as well as recommendations from your friends and peers. Take the time to interview your perspective attorney. We have three lawyers certified by the New Jersey Supreme Court as a Criminal Trial Attorneys who would be happy to speak with you.

If you have been charged with DWI, sex crimes, drug crimes, assault, or white-collar crimes, consult with an experienced New Jersey criminal lawyer at Helmer Paul Conley and Kasselman. Ask for an attorney (refuse to speak about a case) and do not discuss any facts about the incident or case without an attorney.