Being arrested can be an emotionally overwhelming experience. There is the embarrassment of being taken away in handcuffs, the fear of what will happen to you and sometimes just shock and confusion. It is in this distressed state that you are required to make some of the most important decisions of your life.

It is critical do not speak to anyone under any circumstances until you have legal representation! The prosecution is not interested in protecting your rights. Their single interest is in getting a conviction, and you would be surprised the tactics that they can legally use to build a case against you.

Your first decision will be whether to hire a private attorney or use a public defender. If you cannot afford a private attorney, a public defender will be appointed for you. However, as with anything if life, you get what you pay for. Public defenders are typically burdened with heavy case loads and work for the government -- the same institution that pays for the prosecution. And, the government spends a lot more money on prosecuting crimes than on defending the accused.

Do not even consider defending yourself. And do not let anyone talk you out of speaking with your attorney before you speak with anyone else.

Even if you are not sure if you need or can afford a private attorney, we strongly urge you to speak to a criminal defense attorney with experience in your type of charges and with real trial experience. We are available 24 hours per day to speak with you, but we also encourage you to speak with other law firms to make sure you are comfortable with your legal counsel.

IMPORTANT! Although the court is required to provide you with a free public defender, this may not happen until shortly before your trial. It is unacceptable to go though the pre-trial process without legal representation. One of the benefits of a private attorney is that you can control and start your defense immediately -- before the case against you gets any stronger.

1. You have the right to a fair and speedy trial.
2. Right to be provided with a statement of the specific charges against you.
3. Right to cross-examine and confront witnesses.
4. Right to testify on your own behalf.
5. Right to remain silent.
6. Right to use the court's subpoena power to compel witnesses to testify.
7. Right to a Jury Trial (in most cases)
8. Presumption of innocence.

There are seemingly infinite loopholes in the system that can be used against you. We strongly encourage you to be vigilant in the defense of your rights and take advantage of the benefit of an experienced and aggressive defense firm such as Criminal Defense Advocates.