Scranton Criminal Law
After you are arrested for a crime, life becomes uncertain. What happens next? Will you go to jail? Will you face a conviction? What happens if you are charged with a felony? What will happen to your job, your family, your way of life?
If you have never been arrested before, you may be unfamiliar with the next steps. That’s why you need a Scranton criminal law attorney to guide you through the process and help defend your case.
Misdemeanor vs. Felony
There is a huge difference between a misdemeanor and a felony. Although both will go on your criminal record, a felony is much more significant. A misdemeanor is a minor crime that results in less than a year of jail time and small fines. Common misdemeanor crimes include petty theft, DUIs, most drug charges, vandalism, indecent exposure, trespassing, domestic violence, and solicitation of prostitution.
Felony charges, on the other hand, are major. They can result in decades in prison, hefty fines, and a loss of rights. A person convicted of a felony may not be allowed to purchase a firearm, vote, hold office, or serve in jury duty. They may also lose their job and face difficulties finding future employment. It may also be harder to find housing. Relationships with friends and family may suffer due to a felony charge. Those convicted of sex crimes may face lifetime sex offender registry.
Common felony charges include murder, assault with a deadly weapon, child molestation, sexual battery, rape, child pornography, torture, drug trafficking, and white collar crimes (such as fraud and embezzlement). Many of these crimes cross state lines and may be charged at both the state and federal levels, increasing the penalties even more.
What to Do After an Arrest
After an arrest, you may be scared. That’s why it’s helpful to know the next steps so you can protect yourself. Police will try to force you to talk and tell your side of the story so they can incriminate you. Don’t fall for this trap.
After an arrest, you have the right to remain silent. You do not have to say anything to police. You should invoke your right to an attorney right away. Contact a criminal defense lawyer right away for the next steps. Do not discuss the details of your arrest with anyone other than your lawyer.
Once you are released from jail, stay out of trouble. Behave yourself, as anything you do will affect the outcome of your criminal case.
Listen to your lawyer. They have the legal experience to guide you and help you make the right decisions. If they tell you to accept a plea deal, do it. If they advise you not to do something, take their advice.
Contact Us Today
An arrest is a frightening experience. You are looking at an uncertain future. Get help with your defense from an experienced criminal law attorney.
The Needle Law Firm can guide you through the process. It’s never too early to contact us. Once you have been arrested, we can get started on your defense. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Call (570) 344-1266 or fill out the online contact form.
