By knowing and understanding your legal rights, you can protect yourself in the face of criminal charges. Michael Newland of the Michael A. Newland Law Office is a criminal attorney who has been serving clients throughout the Hamilton, Ohio, area for more than 20 years. He's here to share three important things to do when dealing with criminal charges.

If you are charged with a crime, remember the following tips:

• Maintain Silence: The first words of your Miranda Rights inform you that you have the right to remain silent. Take this advice seriously, and refuse to say a word until you've spoken to your criminal attorney. Anything you say can be entered into your record and used against you during the legal process. By maintaining your silence, you will avoid incriminating yourself.
• Call A Lawyer: As soon as you are able, place a call to a lawyer who can advise you on the next steps to take. Your criminal attorney at the Michael A. Newland Law Office is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality legal representation. He strongly believes in your innocence until it is proven otherwise, just as the American judicial system clearly states. Never discuss your case with anyone but your attorney.
• Be Honest: If you do decide to make a statement to the police, don't be dishonest. This statement will be utilized during your trial, and a judge and/or jury isn't going to look favorably on a defendant who lied in his statement and later changed his story. This simply doesn't reflect well on you. If it is in the best interests of your case, your criminal attorney at the Michael A. Newland Law Office will help you make an honest statement to authorities.

Call the Michael A. Newland Law Office at (513) 887-9595 to schedule a free consultation with a criminal attorney today. Visit the firm online to learn more about Attorney Newland and his other practice areas. By maintaining silence and honesty and exercising your right to call a lawyer, you can effectively manage the criminal charges you are facing.