After a person is arrested for a crime, there is a very small window of opportunity in which a trial could be avoided. Not every case has to end in a jury trial, but if you have been arrested, then you need to act quickly in order to avoid charges being filed against you.
What Happens After an Arrest
When a person is arrested, he or she is booked by the police (their personal information is recorded and their picture taken) and then placed in a holding cell at the police station or a jail cell. The arresting officer then creates an arrest report summarizing what led up to the arrest what happened during the arrest, which is then given to the prosecution. At this point, the prosecution decides whether or not criminal charges should be filed.
Pre-Charge Investigations
Criminal defense attorneys may be able to prevent charges from being filed at all if they are hired before this point in time. By conducting a pre-charge investigation, an attorney may be able to prove that the arrest was made in error or due to police misconduct. In some cases, the case could end before charges are ever filed.
Call a Columbia Criminal Defense Attorney
Have you been arrested? Call (803) 938-4952 immediately to speak with a criminal defense lawyer. The sooner you get a lawyer on your side, the better your chances will be of avoiding charges or a criminal conviction. Masella Law Firm, P.A. has decades of experience to offer and can provide the relentless representation that you need. Contact us today!