There are lots of scenarios in which you may feel as though you’ve been unfairly arrested. Being charged with a crime doesn’t need to destroy your life. Here are some of the steps that you can take in order to gain your freedom back.
Understand Your Rights
Following the instructions of the officers doesn’t mean that you’re admitting guilt to any crime. This is also a good way for you to avoid having additional charges thrown at you. If possible, have documented evidence of what transpired during the arrest proceedings. This will give you a more objective view of the events that can later be contested in court. Another thing to understand is that you don’t have to speak to the police without your attorney present.
Investigate Biases
All people have biases even if they aren’t consciously aware of them. What this means is that you may be able to have the charges dropped based on some impropriety of police officers. It could be that there wasn’t sufficient evidence to arrest you in the first place or that evidence was handled incorrectly. This is one of the first things that any good attorney will investigate in order to have the charges reduced or even dropped completely.
Work for Expungement
Consulting a criminal defense attorney will give you the means that you require in order to get back to your normal life. Having the charges dropped or dismissed isn’t always the end of the matter. In some instances, you may have to work to have your record expunged. You don’t want charges that had no basis to affect you for the rest of your life. Ensuring that false charges are expunged will give you back what you lost during the process.
Speak with Prosecutor
Agreeing to speak with the prosecutor can go a long way in showing that you have nothing to hide. You may find out that they don’t have as strong of a case as you had originally presumed. Having your attorney present may even allow you to call their bluff. You may find that the charges are dropped because you have a chance to explain your side of the story before you have to make an appearance in court.
Gaining your freedom back means that you need to be prepared to fight for it. Use these tips so that you can combat your unjust arrest and get back to living your life.
Author Info: Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook: @RachelleWilber.
