The First Things You Should Do if You’re Facing Drug Charges and Need a Drug Defense Lawyer
In Massachusetts, the consequences of being arrested and charged with a drug crime can range anywhere from a warning and a minimal fine to massive fines and substantial jail time. What happens from the moment of arrest until you hire a drug defense lawyer is crucial. This article concretely lays out the most important first steps to take upon arrest and how to work with your legal representation.
If you, or someone you care about has been arrested for a drug-related offense, time is of the essence. Contact Rudolf, Smith, Griffis & Ruggieri, LLP today for a free consultation with one of our drug defense lawyers, and secure the knowledgeable and experienced defense you need and deserve: (508) 570-3037.
Upon Arrest: Remain Silent
From the moment you are approached by law enforcement to the moment you are read your Miranda Rights, it is crucial to remain silent. In Massachusetts, you are only legally obliged to tell law enforcement your legal name, and if you are driving, provide proof of identification. Beyond that, you may ask if you are free to leave. If they say yes, leave calmly and quietly. If they say you cannot and are under arrest, remain silent, do not consent to a search, and do not speak or attempt to explain yourself. The less you say the better a drug defense attorney can help you once you’ve been arrested.
Hire a Drug Defense Lawyer as Quickly as Possible
The sooner you hire legal representation after an arrest, the more swiftly and effectively their response can be. When you are arrested, booked, and then finally charged, the evidence has already been reviewed by the prosecutor. Your attorney is the last to see it. The more time that goes by, the less time a drug defense lawyer has to conduct their own investigations and properly respond to the first court hearings, overall making it harder for them to get ahead of it.
Make a Plan With Your Drug Defense Lawyer
When hiring legal representation, it’s important to choose someone who has the resources, experience, and strategic outlook for building a defense. The severity and penalties vary greatly and the only reliable way to properly understand your charges are to speak with an experienced drug defense lawyer who knows exactly what steps to take and what strategies to adopt. At Rudolf, Smith, Griffis & Ruggieri, LLP, our Worcester-based team of drug defense attorneys knows that aggressive and strategic approaches are the foundation for a strong defense, whatever the circumstances may be.
Together with your attorney, you will discuss your case, your options, and the course of action. It is important to find legal representation you trust. A strong and reliable criminal defense attorney knows the importance of thoroughly and properly assessing a case in order to best legally advise their clients. Because the team at Rudolf, Smith, Griffis & Ruggieri, LLP works collaboratively, we approach each case from multiple angles to identify the best approach.
If you or someone you love has been arrested for drug-related crimes, do not hesitate to contact the Rudolf, Smith, Griffis & Ruggieri, LLP defense attorneys today: (508) 570-3037.