The natural inclination for most people who have never been involved in a criminal investigation and/or arrest, especially when they have not done anything wrong or have anything to worry about, is to cooperate with law enforcement so that they can get to the bottom of an investigation.
Unfortunately, innocent people go to prison all the time. Some innocent people even plead guilty to a crime they never committed. There can be many reasons as to why a defendant would accept responsibility or resolve the matter short of trial.
Nevertheless, when law enforcement talks to a suspect, they are essentially trying to get evidence to use as probable cause to make an arrest. Even if you did nothing wrong, you have the right to remain silent and ask for a lawyer if you are taken into custody. This may be the best option to protect yourself from saying something that can be used against you, even if it was taken out of context.
Prosecutors are interested in getting convictions and resolving matters. Most criminal cases are settled before they go to trial by a plea or dispositional agreement. The prosecutor may make it seem like there is no chance and the defendant should accept the plea bargain for a lighter sentence instead of getting the maximum sentence after a trial. This is why it is imperative that one should not cooperative with the investigating officers, nor should they allow a Prosecutor to dictate the criminal charge that has been filed against a defendant.
If you or a loved one is in a bind as a result of a criminal charge, immediately contact a Seattle Criminal Attorney. A Criminal lawyer is not going to judge you, and understands that everyone makes mistakes. Hiring a Seattle Criminal Lawyer to help can – at a minimum – reduce penalties, and can help direct people on how to best deal with their criminal charge, and many times even get them dismissed. So it should go without saying that someone cited for a misdemeanor or felony should hire a qualified Seattle Criminal Lawyer as soon as possible. Criminal charges can cause havoc on a person’s personal and professional life. Anyone charged with a crime in Washington State should immediately seek the assistance of a seasoned Seattle Criminal Lawyer.