In today’s era with the increase in the number of criminal cases, having a general knowledge about crimes and laws related to it is of utmost importance. It is necessary for one to know the legalities involved when charged with a crime and what measures an individual can take in order to reverse the charges.
If one is charged in cases of robbery, murder, sex crime, drug possession, domestic violence, fraud, or any similar act, such acts are claimed as crimes. In short, crime is an act of omission which is enacted in violation of public law, endangering the safety, health, morals, as well as actions which can be deemed to be threatening and harmful to individuals. Such types of charges are dealt with by special lawyers known as criminal lawyers.
Basic Things One Should be Aware of When Charged with a Crime
An average individual, who is oblivious to common laws, fails to understand how to act or know what to do when charged with a crime. Thus, it becomes immensely important to be abreast with certain basics regarding criminal cases and the charges in order to act in a proper manor.
Different Types of Crimes
Not all crimes have similar charges applicable to it. Based on the type of crime committed or the crime one is charged with, the type of punishment also differs. The crime can either be an infraction, felony, or misdemeanor.
– Infractions involve crimes, such as theft, which are considered minor crimes. This type of crime does not cause one to receive severe punishment and the individual may get bail in such cases.
– In comparison to infractions, a misdemeanor relates to a much more severe crime which includes cases of defamation, fraud, etc. The individual may be imprisoned for a year or two along with being fined a penalty.
– Felonies are the most severe of the three. If the individual is proven to be guilty, he or she will most likely be sent to prison for a term which can vary based on the severity of the crime committed.
Knowing Your Rights
Whether one is accused or not accused of a crime, it is immensely necessary for individuals to be aware of their rights. In the case of being accused of a crime, it is most advisable to hire a professional criminal attorney who can assist one in knowing their rights.
Divulge Information Only to a Lawyer
It is often recommended by lawyers, to individuals who are charged with any type of case, to not divulge details to anyone except the lawyer alone. Maintaining transparency about the case with the criminal lawyer makes it easier for the latter to understand the case well and prepare strategies accordingly to prove the defendant’s innocence in front of the jury.
Do Not Fight Your Own Case
In contrast to what is shown on TV and Films, where the accused represent themselves and have their case acquitted, it usually does not work like that in real life cases. Unless the individual is a renowned practitioner of the law, it is advisable for one to not try to represent themselves in a major criminal case. It is much wiser to have a professional criminal lawyer represent the case, rather than seeking to save a few dollars and end up in prison forever.
Out of Court Settlement
Not all cases reach the courtroom. Most of the disputes reach for out of court settlement where both the parties reach an agreement.
Knowing the basics about criminal cases will help to prevent one from getting wrongly accused or charged. This will also ensure individuals get a general idea of what to do if they ever encounter such situations in life. Contact Larsen, Larsen, Nash & Larsen for an experienced lawyer for your next criminal case at (801) 964-1200.
