What Should I Do if I’m Charged with a Crime?

Even when you have been charged with a crime, you may be surprised to hear that you have a variety of rights. There are many constitutional protections that come into play during these challenging times. With legal help on your side, you can ensure that your rights are being protected. It is important that you have the skilled help of a criminal defense attorney so that you are not taken advantage of during this complex process.

Facing the Initial Charges

When you picture being charged with a crime, you typically imagine a person being taken away in handcuffs. However, it is important to note that every case is different and that many people are charged with a crime even before they are arrested. If this occurs, the judge will issue a warrant for your arrest, which means that police officers will try to locate you. If the police find you, they must give you a copy of the warrant stating what charges you are facing.

After you have been arrested, you will be taken to the police department where you will be “booked.” This means that police will take your fingerprints and ensure that you have met all procedural requirements that others endure when they are taken to the station. You will then be held in police custody until your court hearing, which could be anywhere from a few hours to a few days. It is important to note that, during this time, you will be able to speak with your attorney.

At the Criminal Court Hearing

There are many things that you should expect at the hearing. The judge will read the charges against you. The judge will ask the defendant (you) to enter a plea of “guilty,” “not guilty,” or “no contest.” If the case goes to trial, the government will have to prove that the defendant is actually guilty of a crime.

If it is shown that you are not guilty of the crimes you were charged with, you can expect to be released from custody. If you are found guilty, there will be a sentencing hearing.

At the Sentencing Hearing

At the sentencing hearing, the judge will take a closer look at the evidence that was provided to them and take various factors into account. If you have already faced jail time before your hearing and the crime was minor, you could be released with special requirements after the hearing. If the crime was more severe, you could be looking at more jail time, fines, and even treatment depending on what type of crime you were charged with. No matter what types of crimes you have been charged with, you should always have a skilled criminal defense attorney by your side.

Contact an Experienced Cherry Hill Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your Criminal Charges in NJ

Were you arrested or charged with a crime in New Jersey? The consequences of a conviction could be severe, leaving you with a permanent criminal record and possibly even sending you to jail. That is why you need to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible about your case. The attorneys at Begelman & Orlow, P.C. have successfully represented clients charged with a crime in Cherry Hill, Camden, Gloucester City and throughout New Jersey. Call (866) 627-7052 or fill out the online contact form to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team. We have an office conveniently located at 411 Route 70 East, Cherry Hill, NJ, as well as offices located in Feasterville, PA.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.

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