Are You Under Investigation?

Not everyone is arrested and charged with a crime quickly. In many cases, the criminal procedure starts with an investigation. Suspects may be contacted by the police or a detective who wants to discuss a particular crime or case. Oftentimes, these investigators say they simply want to talk and hear your side of the story. Do not be fooled by their polite or personable disposition. Make no mistake, you are under investigation and the things you say can — and will — be used against you. When you are being investigated for a crime, it is imperative that you have legal support and guidance. You need an experienced and skilled Seattle criminal defense lawyer on your side to represent you and protect your rights and your future.

When the police state that they just need to get a statement for you so they can close out their file or move on to other suspects, be wary. Politely decline their request and let them know that you need to speak to your attorney first. Then call our law firm. We can help you by intervening in the process early and swiftly. This allows us to make sure that things proceed properly from the beginning. By being proactive now, we can avoid months and months of lengthy investigations and charges. If charges are filed against you, we will be there to deal with them promptly and help things from escalating.

Do Not Talk to Prosecutors or Investigators

Many people mistakenly believe that they can just explain their side of the story. After all, they didn't do anything wrong, so why shouldn't they cooperate with investigators? The truth is that if investigators are talking to you, you are a suspect for a crime. The things you say will get twisted against you and used to make you look guilty. Even innocent statements can be used against you.

You have a right to remain silent and to request legal representation. As such, simply tell the prosecutor or law enforcement officer that you will not discuss your case or the investigation without your attorney present. Then call our law firm immediately. If the police have a search warrant or subpoena, allow them to access the areas or items mentioned specifically in the warrant and nothing else. Do not lose your temper or say anything that could incriminate you.

How Can a Seattle Attorney Help During Investigations?

At the beginning of an investigation, it is most important to have legal representation. A criminal defense attorney knows how to talk to law enforcement officers and prosecutors. We can give them the information they require to help clear your name and avoid a filing altogether. If avoiding charges is unavoidable, we can help reduce the stress and confusion for you during the process. We can petition the prosecutor's office to avoid arrest and request a summons issued for an appearance in court instead. If an arrest is unavoidable, we can arrange for a surrender time to help reduce the anxiety and fear for you. 

After you are arrested and charged with a crime, our law firm will begin strategizing and gearing up for your defense, so we can best represent you. We can arrange for bail bond companies to help get you out of jail and can protect your freedom at every turn.

Contact Our Seattle Criminal Defense Lawyers Today

If you are facing criminal charges in Seattle, or you are under investigation, it is important to know where you can turn for help. Investigations are scary and complex and require legal guidance immediately. Our Seattle criminal defense attorneys can examine your case and help you review your legal options. We can work to keep you out of jail and even fight to keep you from being charged with a crime altogether.

The experienced criminal defense lawyers at Lewis & Laws, PLLC, have defended clients in Seattle, Bellevue, Everett, Kirkland, and throughout the state of Washington. Contact us today at 206.209.0608 or fill out our confidential contact form. We know how to fight serious criminal charges and can protect your future. Call us today!