If you’re facing criminal charges, you’ll want a defense attorney to help you get them minimized—or, ideally, dismissed altogether. Having a good criminal law attorney on your side is just half the battle, however. Your actions, starting from the very moment you are arrested, can impact your case. Read on to find out what you should—and should not—do to help your case.

3 Tips for Helping Your Criminal Law Case

1. Hold Your Tongue Around the Police

If you’ve been arrested, whether it’s for a suspected burglary attempt or a reckless driving infraction, don’t talk too much. Do be polite. Do not: admit guilt, lie, or submit to an unwarranted search. An officer must have probable cause to look into the trunk of your car, for instance.

2. Get a Good Defense Attorney

In addition to these tips, one of the most important steps you can take when facing a criminal charge is to get a good lawyer. Assert your right to call a lawyer with the police. You want somebody who is well versed in criminal law and has trial experience.

3. Be Honest With Your Lawyer

Give your attorney the facts. They are in your corner and will do their best to make a case that gives you optimal outcomes. To do so, they need to have the truth regarding your side of the story. This means also being forthcoming about any previous offenses you may have on your record, as these can affect a current case.

If you’re in need of a defense attorney in the Charles Town, WV, area, put your trust in James T. Kratovil Law Offices, PLLC. Mr. Kratovil has over three decades of experience in the legal field, including in criminal law. He and his team are dedicated to helping their clients with expert knowledge and compassion. Find out more about their practice areas online. For an appointment, call (304) 728-7718.