Susan B Lope

Attorneys are skilled in helping accused people - they understand how people feel if they are charged with a crime. Because of this, they are able to act objectively while working to secure release from custody and planning a defense.

If you are arrested, be polite and civil with the police, and give them basic biographical information they request (name, address, date of birth). Beyond that, do not offer any information until you have received legal guidance.

Failing to use a lawyer in a criminal case can have serious ramifications. Even the brightest individual can be swallowed up by the legal system and pay the most severe penalties.