Law Offices of Christopher Chaney: Your Van Nuys Criminal Defense Attorneys
If you are facing criminal charges in Van Nuys, CA, you may be wondering, “What do I do next?” Being arrested can be stressful and overwhelming, but a criminal defense attorney can help.
At the Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, our team of experienced criminal defense lawyers are here to assist you. If you have been charged with a crime, contact us to schedule a free consultation.
What Is a Criminal Defense?
In criminal law, “defense” is both a noun and a verb. A defense is a legal argument or reason why you should not be convicted of a crime. By raising a defense, you are actively fighting the charges against you.
A wide range of defenses are available to criminal charges, including an alibi, lack of evidence, constitutional violations, self-defense, etc. A criminal defense lawyer can help assess your circumstances and determine what defenses are available in your case.
Your Legal Rights
If you have been arrested or charged with a crime, it is essential to remember that you have fundamental rights. Many are aware of the concept of Miranda Rights but do not know how to invoke those rights. You also have other rights as a defendant in a criminal proceeding.
- The right to remain silent. It is vital to understand that you have the right to remain silent. Any statement you make can be used as evidence against you in a court of law. This law is anchored in the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and is meant to protect individuals from self-incrimination.
- The right to an attorney. All criminal defendants in the U.S. have a right to the assistance of counsel. If you cannot afford an attorney, the court must provide you with a public defender. This right is a crucial element of the Sixth Amendment.
- The right to a speedy and public trial. The Sixth Amendment also gives you the right to a prompt and public trial.
- The right to confront witnesses. An accused person has the right to question the witnesses testifying against them.
- The right to a trial by an impartial jury. The accused has the right to a trial by an impartial jury of their peers. In California, a unanimous, 12-person jury must find the accused guilty beyond a reasonable doubt to obtain a conviction.
A knowledgeable criminal defense attorney can help you understand these rights. They will also advocate on your behalf to protect these rights throughout the criminal justice process.
At the Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, our criminal defense attorneys understand the stakes and will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and freedom.
What Should You Do if You Are Arrested in Van Nuys, CA?
Being arrested for a crime can be a distressing experience. The subsequent processes, from the point of arrest to the court proceedings, often lead to anxiety and fear.
If you find yourself under arrest, you should stay calm, invoke your Miranda Rights, and speak with a criminal lawyer as soon as possible.
Stay Calm
It is not unexpected to feel startled and overwhelmed. However, staying calm and cooperative can be crucial. Not only will it help you think clearly, but it can minimize the chances of complicating matters. Cooperating with the arresting officers can avert unnecessary escalation and additional criminal charges.
Invoke Your Miranda Rights
After you are arrested, the arresting officer should advise you of your Miranda Rights. You should invoke those rights by seeking the assistance of an attorney and remaining silent until an attorney is present.
Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer
After being taken into custody, your first call should be to a competent criminal defense attorney. They will guide you through each step of the legal process, protecting your rights and building a solid defense on your behalf.
An arrest does not mean you are guilty of a crime, despite how the process can make you feel. A skilled criminal lawyer can explain the charges against you and help you navigate the criminal justice process.
Qualities of an Effective Criminal Lawyer
Choosing suitable legal representation can be critical when facing criminal charges. An effective criminal lawyer should possess certain qualities and capabilities.
When choosing an attorney to defend against criminal charges, it is important to find an attorney who is:
- Knowledgeable. Your lawyer must have an understanding of the state statutes, local ordinances, and federal criminal law. They should also be adept at dealing with various kinds of criminal cases or the specific charges against you.
- Communicative. Your lawyer should be an excellent communicator who can explain complex legal jargon in layman’s terms. They should also be great listeners to fully understand and address your concerns.
- A strategic thinker. In criminal law, strategy is imperative. Your lawyer should be able to devise highly effective defense strategies. They must also critically investigate the case against you to determine available defenses.
- Shows integrity. A good criminal lawyer should exhibit integrity and honesty, keeping your best interests in mind. They should also respect and uphold confidentiality, protecting your private information and case details.
The criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Christopher Chaney fight tirelessly for your freedom. With decades of experience, our team has helped clients fight a variety of criminal charges. We offer a range of resources and solutions, taking a comprehensive approach to each criminal matter.
Contact the Law Offices of Christopher Chaney Today
Remember, every case is unique, and the legal procedures can vary significantly based on the nature of the charges against you. No matter the charges laid against you, hiring an experienced Van Nuys criminal lawyer can be crucial to securing the best possible outcome.
The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney team will help protect your rights, guide you through the entire process, and use their skills to mount a robust defense on your behalf.
If you were charged with a crime, do not fight alone! Contact us now to schedule a free consultation.
