If you’ve been arrested and/or charged with a crime in Loudoun County, Virginia, it is pertinent you know your rights and understand how to proceed with a criminal case. Below, a Loudoun County criminal lawyer explains some of your rights when a police officer has stopped you and why it is crucial to speak to an attorney.
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If you are charged with a criminal offense in Loudoun County or are involved in a criminal investigation in Loudoun County, it is your right to contact a criminal defense attorney at any point.
An attorney who handles criminal cases on a regular basis is informed about the investigation and arrest process. Typically a layperson will not have the same requisite level of knowledge about the law, criminal procedures, and police investigatory procedures. Therefore, it is in your best interests to contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to begin building the best possible defense.
Invoking your right to counsel does not imply guilt. In addition, asking to speak to your attorney is your constitutional right that you should feel free to exercise at any time. You are not obliged to speak to law enforcement officials beyond giving your biographical information, which includes your name, date of birth, and answer to questions to similar biographical questions.
A private defense attorney, as opposed to a court appointed attorney, brings several advantages to your case. In Loudoun County, a vast majority of court-appointed cases are handled by the Office of the Public Defender. That office is a group of attorney who have handled nothing but criminal cases. They do a great job, but they have a lot of cases.
A private defense attorney has a lighter load by quantity and has the ability to give your case an additional amount of consideration, explore creative options for your case, be responsive to any communications needs you have, and give your case the time and attention that it deserves.
While solo practitioners are often experienced attorneys and do a great job, there are many benefits of hiring an attorney that is part of a law firm.
The main benefit is that an attorney who is part of a law firm will have extensive resources. These resources may include additional personnel to conduct research and investigate motions. Additionally, it includes attorneys to collaborate with in order to come up with the best line of defense for your case.
In addition, a law firm may have significant professional resources in their hand such as lawyers, paralegals, and private investigators that can help with your case.
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