You’ve found yourself in a troubling legal situation. Maybe you were arrested, or perhaps you’re under investigation. While you hope it all goes away on its own, experience shows it’s best to act fast and talk to a criminal defense lawyer. But when exactly should you make that call?

As Soon As Possible After an Arrest

If police detain or arrest you, it’s crucial to contact a lawyer immediately. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can come to the station and ensure your rights are protected through the arrest process. They can work to get you released quickly and start crafting your defense strategy right away. Don’t wait to call a criminal defense lawyer — do it as soon as you can after the arrest. They can provide counsel during interrogation and help prevent you from accidentally incriminating yourself before you even get charged.

After Receiving a Subpoena or Warrant

If you receive a subpoena to provide evidence or testify about an investigation, or police give you a search warrant, it means you’re the target of an ongoing criminal case. While you may not have been arrested or charged yet, prosecutors are building a case against you. This is another good time to bring in an experienced criminal defense lawyer to protect your rights. They can counsel you on dealing with investigators, provide clarity on what charges you may face, and work to prevent indictment.

Once You’re Formally Charged

If the police arrest and book you, or a grand jury indicts you on criminal charges, then it’s definitely time to hire a criminal defense lawyer if you don’t already have one. According to Zippia, there are over 252,159 defense attorneys currently employed in the United States, so you should be able to find a dependable criminal defense lawyer to represent you. Your lawyer will advise you on your next steps, represent you in court, negotiate with the prosecutor, and craft your legal defense. This is not something you want to navigate alone.

If you find yourself facing a criminal investigation, arrest, or charges, turn to an experienced criminal defense lawyer right away. A lawyer will fight to protect your freedom, rights, and future. The sooner you contact them after an arrest or charges, the more quickly they can start building your strongest possible defense. Contact Flynn Law today to schedule a consultation.