Most people believe that because you are arrested that you have been charged with a crime. This is incorrect. The arrest is merely the initial stage of the potential prosecution of a crime.
However, it is the most important stage for you. Early intervention by a criminal lawyer can assist you with not only protecting your rights but securing witnesses, evidence and dealing with the police and district attorney.
You have rights which are protected by the Constitution of the United States and the state of Louisiana. You should know your rights and protect yourself. You should hire an criminal attorney with experience in criminal law. As a former city prosecutor Payton “Pete” Burkhalter has handled numerous cases from simple traffic offenses to serious felony offenses. Let Peyton Burkhalter Law assist you when you have been accused of a crime.
Below are a series of frequently asked questions.
A sample of the questions you should have following an arrest are as follows:
Should I give a statement?
You should never provide a voluntary statement to the police without consulting an criminal attorney first. You have the right to remain silent and to the services of an attorney throughout the criminal process, even if you cannot afford to hire a criminal lawyer.
Am I entitled to a Bond/Bail?
Most, if not all, charges allow for the setting of a bond to secure your release from jail while you are waiting to determine if the state will charge you with a crime or for your trial on the charges. Remember, judges set bonds based upon the information they have before them at the time. That is why hiring a criminal lawyer to represent you early on in this process is so important.
What potential crimes can I be charged with?
An analysis of the potential crimes arising from a set of facts can be numerous. The early intervention of a criminal lawyer will help narrow the scope of charges and provide you with a voice during the process.
What are the possible penalties?
The penalties for the violation of Louisiana Criminal Statutes can vary depending on the nature of the offense. Louisiana law allows for ranges of sentence based upon the nature of the crime. Your criminal lawyer will advocate on your behalf to reduce the sentence range depending on the outcome of your defense to the charge.
What can I do to fight the charges?
The first thing to do is hire a skilled, knowledgeable criminal attorney that has experience handling criminal cases. Next, allow the criminal lawyer to assist you with securing evidence and witnesses on your behalf and challenge the evidence and witnesses of the state.
What are my chances of winning?
Alone, your chances of winning are greatly reduced. No one can guarantee results, with the right criminal attorney you will have a fighting chance.
Hire Peyton “Pete” B. Burkhalter as your criminal lawyer. He will help answer your questions and fight for your rights. Call now to schedule your free evaluation or drop into our office located in Metairie, Louisiana.