If you are the subject of a criminal investigation, it’s generally in your best interest to contact a New York attorney as quickly as possible. As a general rule, being proactive about finding a legal representative may help you avoid making mistakes that could help the state build its case against you.
An attorney may prevent you from incriminating yourself
A professional with extensive criminal law knowledge will likely review written statements before they are submitted to the authorities. Furthermore, he or she will likely sit by your side during an interrogation. During the interrogation, an attorney may advise you to refrain from answering any questions that are designed to gain information that could be used against you later in the legal process.
A lawyer may be able to negotiate a favorable plea deal
The sooner that you hire a lawyer, the easier it may be to negotiate a favorable plea deal in your case. For instance, your legal adviser may convince a prosecutor to offer a deal that enables you to avoid jail time in exchange for testimony against other defendants. There is also a possibility that a prosecutor will ask a judge to give you a suspended sentence in exchange for your cooperation.
A legal adviser can serve as your public mouthpiece
Generally speaking, the best thing that a person who is under investigation can do is say nothing until the investigation is over. However, it can be tempting to make statements to reports through social media profiles or in other forums. Typically, your attorney will issue statements on your behalf that allow you to control the narrative without saying anything that may help authorities.
The mere fact that local, state or federal authorities are investigating you could put a strain on your life. Hiring an attorney may allow you to clear your name without being charged with a crime. In the event that charges are filed, your legal representative may take steps to negotiate a plea deal, get a charge dismissed or obtain an acquittal after a formal trial.