Common Mistakes Made by Federal Defendants

 Posted on April 30, 2020 in Federal Crimes

Facing federal charges is a very upsetting and confusing thing. You may not know why you are being accused of the offense, and you are likely very stressed out about your future. All of these are very natural reactions, but they can lead people to take the wrong types of action. These actions can be very detrimental to a case, and even cost a person their future. If you have been charged with a federal crime, it is important to know what the most common mistakes made are, so you can avoid making them yourself.

Taking Your Case to Social Media

When people are arrested for a federal crime,  they are read the Miranda warning, which tells them that anything they say, “can and will be used against them in a court of law.” Many people think this only applies to speaking to the police, but it does not. Anything you say regarding the case can be used against you, even when it is said on Facebook, Twitter, or other social media platforms. As such, you should stay off social media completely or, at the very least, refrain from posting to it.

Speaking to the Police

Unfortunately, not everyone realizes that they do not have to talk to the police, particularly prior to being read their rights. It is crucial that you never tell the police anything that may incriminate yourself or make you appear guilty. This is a right guaranteed to people by the Fifth Amendment. Many people think that pleading the Fifth will make them look guilty, but it does not. It simply shows that you know your rights and that you know how to exercise them.

Not Paying Attention to Your Appearance in Court

It is a huge mistake to think that a judge will not make a decision about you based on your appearance. If you show up dirty, disheveled, or wearing ripped or torn clothing, the judge will likely determine that you do not respect the court and will treat you in the same manner. Always tend to your appearance, dress for the occasion, and show the judge that you are a responsible person.

Representing Yourself

Many times people think they can represent themselves in their criminal case and not use the help of an attorney. Although this is never a good idea, it is even worse when you are facing federal charges. The federal criminal justice system is a complicated one with many more procedural rules than the state criminal justice system. Additionally, even though your powers of persuasion may be enough to win arguments with friends and family, it will not be enough for a judge and jury. Always speak to an attorney that understands the law and how to use it to give you the best chance of a positive outcome.

Call Our Illinois Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

When you are facing federal charges, you should never try to represent yourself. At the Law Offices of Hal M. Garfinkel, our skilled Chicago federal criminal defense lawyer can help. Attorney Garfinkel understands the law, and he will use that knowledge to help get your charges reduced, or dismissed altogether. Call us today at 312-629-0669 or contact us online to arrange a free consultation with our attorney.

Source:

https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/fifth_amendment