Being charged criminally is a scary experience. This is especially true if it is happening for the first time. How you react to being criminally charged will dictate how you get through the experience.

You need to avoid common mistakes to deal with your criminal charges effectively. The following are six things you shouldn't do after you receive a notice of criminal charges against you.

Procrastinating about defending yourself

Getting your defense together as soon as possible is important. There are numerous things you can do to start getting a defense together. 

If there are witnesses that can serve as alibis for you or contradict the assertions the police are making against you, you need to get in touch with these witnesses and have them ready to support your case.

Think of any other evidence in your defense you can get together. Also, research your charges and what some common means of forming a legal defense against them are. 

Failing to disclose the whole truth to your attorney

You won't get anywhere by hiding things from your attorney. It's best to be honest. Remember that your attorney isn't the one bringing charges against you. Your attorney is on your side, so be honest to find out what your best chances are on defending yourself successfully. 

Communicating with law enforcement without your lawyer present

You shouldn't show up for any meeting with law enforcement without your lawyer present. Law enforcement are trained to pry the evidence they need out of defendants to get a conviction.

Lawyers know the tricks that police officers can use and will provide you with instruction to allow you to defend yourself against them. 

Posting sensitive information on social media sites

Be careful with social media regarding your situation and your charges. You should know that law enforcement these days can use social media to find admissions of guilt or other evidence to use against you. Don't post anything online about your legal situation unless you discuss it with your attorney first. 

Panicking

It's easy to panic right after receiving criminal charges. However, you need to keep yourself calm and avoid doing anything rash. You may be able to successfully fight the charges if you remain calm and collected. 

Deciding to defend yourself without the help of a professional criminal defense lawyer

Nowadays, criminal defendants absolutely need professional legal representation to protect themselves against charges. You need your attorney to negotiate with the judge on your behalf. One of the first things you should do after finding out that charges are pending against you is find a criminal defense lawyer to represent you. 

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