9 Common Mistakes People Make in a Criminal Matter and How to Avoid Them

1. Allowing a search or seizure when the police come to your home or work- Do not give the police permission to do this unless they present proper credentials and a search warrant. Read the complete search warrant to determine the scope and ask to watch the search proceedings.

2. Giving a voluntary statement - You are not required to talk to police when they come to talk to you about a crime. You have the right to remain silent - which is what you should do until you speak to an attorney

3. Not being polite and courteous with police - Don't give them a reason to escalate the situation and use violence and force on you.

4. Resisting arrest - Being uncooperative during an arrest will only hurt your case

5. Voluntarily giving samples of body fluids, fingerprints, handwriting, clothing -You don't have to give officers these items without a court order or your attorney's permission

6. Taking a polygraph or lie-detector test - Even if you pass it, this test is not admissible in court

7. Failing to ask if you are under arrest - If the officers say Yes, you have the right to know why

8. Not telling your lawyer all the facts - Your lawyer can't give you the best representation if he doesn't know all the facts about the case. It's not good for your attorney to be surprised by information he learns at a hearing or trial. When you're honest with you lawyer he can do a better job at protecting your interests.

9. Choosing a lawyer who is not experienced in criminal law or with handling trials - Criminal charges can have serious current and future consequences. Choosing an experienced and skilled lawyer can have a tremendous affect on the outcome of your case. Click here to go to the home page to read how to choose the right lawyer for your case.

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