Founding Attorney
Being charged with a violent crime in Orlando is one of the most stressful and overwhelming experiences a person can face. These charges often carry severe consequences, including lengthy prison terms, steep fines, and a permanent criminal record. How you respond in the hours and days after your arrest can have a lasting impact on your case.
Below, the Law Offices of Jose E. Lopez will outline the step-by-step actions to take if you are charged with a violent crime, along with key dos and don’ts during the investigation process.
Step 1: Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
One of the most important rights you have is the right to remain silent. Anything you say to law enforcement can be used against you in court.
- Do: Politely inform officers that you are invoking your right to remain silent.
- Don’t: Attempt to explain your side of the story or argue your innocence without an attorney present. Even casual statements may harm your defense.
Step 2: Request an Attorney Immediately
After invoking your right to remain silent, your next step should be to request an attorney. Having legal guidance early in the process ensures that your rights are protected.
- Do: Clearly state that you want to speak with an attorney before answering any questions.
- Don’t: Assume you can “clear things up” on your own. Investigators are trained to gather evidence, not protect your interests.
Step 3: Understand the Bail Process
In many cases, bail may be set after your arrest. This allows you to be released from custody while awaiting trial.
- Do: Speak with your attorney about requesting a reasonable bail amount or a bond reduction if bail is set too high.
- Don’t: Discuss the details of your case with bondsmen, cellmates, or anyone else outside of your legal team.
Step 4: Avoid Contact With the Alleged Victim
If you have been charged with a violent crime, especially in cases involving assault, domestic violence, or aggravated battery, avoiding contact with the alleged victim is critical.
- Do: Follow all restraining orders or conditions of release.
- Don’t: Call, text, message, or approach the alleged victim, even if you believe it could help clarify the situation. Doing so could result in additional charges or the revocation of bail.
Step 5: Gather and Preserve Evidence
The sooner you begin collecting evidence, the stronger your defense may be.
- Do: Provide your attorney with names of potential witnesses, phone records, receipts, or any other information that may help establish your whereabouts or disprove the accusations.
- Don’t: Attempt to hide, alter, or destroy evidence. This can severely damage your case and result in new criminal charges.
Do’s and Don’ts During the Investigation
Beyond the initial steps, your behavior throughout the investigation can impact how your case unfolds.
Do:
- Stay in close communication with your attorney.
- Comply with court orders and deadlines.
- Keep detailed notes about any interactions with law enforcement.
Don’t:
- Speak to police or prosecutors without your attorney present.
- Post about your case on social media.
- Discuss details of the charges with friends, coworkers, or family members who may later be called as witnesses.
Social Media Precautions
In today’s world, investigators and prosecutors often review social media accounts for evidence. Even posts you believe are private may be used against you.
- Do: Review your privacy settings and avoid posting anything that could be interpreted as threatening or incriminating.
- Don’t: Delete old posts, as this may appear as evidence tampering. The safest approach is to stop posting altogether until your case is resolved.
Why Early Legal Representation Matters
Violent crime cases in Orlando can be aggressively prosecuted. Having an attorney by your side from the beginning helps ensure that:
- Your constitutional rights are protected.
- Unlawful searches or interrogations can be challenged in court.
- A strong defense strategy is developed before the trial.
- Opportunities for reduced charges, dismissal, or favorable plea agreements are explored.
The Law Offices of Jose E. Lopez, P.A. understands the high stakes involved in violent crime cases. We work closely with clients to build a strong defense tailored to their situation.
Protect Your Rights if You’re Facing a Violent Crime Charge
If you are facing charges for a violent crime in Orlando, your future is on the line. Taking the right steps now can make all the difference.
Contact the Law Offices of Jose E. Lopez, P.A., today to schedule a confidential consultation and begin building your defense.