How Can I Protect My Rights during the Investigation Process?

If you’ve been charged with a crime, you likely know that you have rights, but you may not know what you can do to protect them during the investigation process. This is where having an experienced Nashville criminal defense attorney on your side comes in, and the sooner you reach out, the better protected your legal rights will be, which – in turn – supports a more favorable case resolution.

The Investigation Process

The criminal investigation process refers to the steps law enforcement takes when they suspect someone of committing a crime. If they can establish probable cause, which means having reasonable grounds to proceed, this investigation can lead to any of the following:

• Being arrested
• Being taken into custody
• Being summoned to appear before the court

Throughout the process, you have important rights that can directly affect the outcome of your case and that are well worth protecting.

The Right to Protection from Unreasonable Search and Seizure

In order for the police to search your home, car, or person, they must have one of the following:

• Your consent, which you’re advised to withhold unless your trusted criminal defense attorney tells you otherwise
• A warrant
• Probable cause – or a reasonable belief that you committed a specific crime

When the prosecution gathers evidence against you illegally, the presiding judge in your case can throw it out, which makes it inadmissible in court. 

The Right to an Attorney

If you are charged with a crime, are detained in relation to a crime, or believe that you are being investigated for a crime, you have the right to an attorney, and it is always in your best interest to invoke this right. The sooner you have skilled legal guidance backing you up, the better protected your rights will be throughout your case, which can make a big difference in how your case is resolved.

The Right to Remain Silent

The right not to incriminate yourself by refraining from speaking is of primary importance. If the police are questioning you in relation to a crime, you’re only required to provide them with basic identifying information, and this should be your guide. The police are skilled at mining more information than most people realize they’re sharing, and the stress of the situation doesn’t work in your favor. Because anything you say can be used directly against you, you should limit your conversation to requesting an attorney.

Make the Call to an Experienced Nashville Criminal Defense Attorney Today

If you’re under investigation for a crime, Andrew Beasley at Andrew C. Beasley, PLLC, is a seasoned Nashville criminal defense attorney with an impressive track record of fiercely defending the legal rights of valued clients like you. The outcome of your case will play a critical role in your future, so don’t delay reaching out and contacting us online or calling us at 615-709-9428 for more information about what we can do for you today.