Steps to Take After Being Arrested for a Crime in East Side, Chicago, Illinois
Being arrested is a frightening and overwhelming experience, especially if it’s your first encounter with the criminal justice system. If you have been arrested in East Side, Chicago, knowing what steps to take after an arrest can significantly impact the outcome of your case. At The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, we have decades of experience defending individuals facing criminal charges and can help guide you through this challenging time.
Step 1: Stay Calm and Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
The first and most important step after being arrested is to remain calm and avoid making any statements to law enforcement. Anything you say can be used against you in court, so it’s crucial to exercise your right to remain silent. Police officers may try to get you to confess or make incriminating statements, but you are under no obligation to speak without an attorney present.
Politely inform the officers that you wish to remain silent and that you are invoking your right to legal representation. Your words and actions immediately following your arrest can have a significant impact on your defense, so it’s important to avoid saying anything that could harm your case.
Step 2: Contact an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney
After your arrest, you have the right to contact an attorney. This is one of the most important steps you can take, as an experienced criminal defense attorney can provide you with immediate legal guidance and protect your rights throughout the legal process.
At The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, we understand how stressful it can be to face criminal charges. Our firm has decades of experience handling cases in East Side, Chicago, and throughout Illinois. We will work quickly to evaluate your criminal case, gather evidence, and develop a strong defense strategy. Having a skilled attorney in your corner from the beginning can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
Step 3: Understand the Charges Against You
Once you have secured legal representation, your attorney will explain the charges against you and what they mean. In Illinois, criminal charges are classified as either misdemeanors or felonies. Misdemeanors are less serious offenses that carry penalties such as fines and short jail sentences, while felonies carry much more severe penalties, including years in prison and substantial fines.
It’s important to understand the potential penalties you’re facing, as well as the specific elements of the crime the prosecution must prove to secure a conviction. Your attorney will help you understand the legal process and what to expect in court.
Step 4: Work with Your Attorney to Develop a Defense Strategy
After reviewing the details of your case, your attorney will work with you to develop a defense strategy. This may involve challenging the evidence against you, such as questioning the legality of the arrest or the admissibility of certain evidence. Your attorney may also negotiate with the prosecution to reduce the charges or seek alternative sentencing options, such as probation or community service.
In some cases, it may be possible to have the charges dropped altogether if your attorney can show that law enforcement violated your rights during the investigation or arrest. No matter the circumstances, having a strong defense strategy is key to achieving the best possible outcome in your case.
Contact Us For Your Free Consultation
If you are facing criminal charges in East Side, Chicago, Illinois, don’t face it alone. Contact The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg for skilled legal assistance. We offer a free consultation when you call us at (312) 560-7100 or toll-free at (800) 803-1442. Our firm serves clients in and around Chicago, including Cook County, DuPage County, Will County, and Lake County. Let us help you fight for your future.