Michigan Criminal Investigation Lawyer
Do I need to hire a lawyer before being charged?

I meet with a lot of people who have not yet been formally charged with a crime, but are currently under investigation by the police. The most common type of case is Criminal Sexual Conduct, Embezzlement, Domestic Violence and Assault cases.

For Criminal Sexual Conduct, a victim alleges something unwanted occurred  and the police department follow-up on this claim with additional interviews and seek additional physical evidence. While this process is going on, the potential client is contacted by the police department and asked to make a statement.  The most common question "do I need to speak to the police about my case." This is where I come into play.  

For Embezzlement, you may have been fired from a job, and the employer informs you that you've been stealing from the company.  The company will make a police report, which alleges the crime; this could be a misdemeanor felony.  The police will reach out to you to make a statement.  This is where you call me, so I can speak to the police, get information, and try to avoid charges altogether.  In the past, I've been able to work out agreements for no charges or dismissal or charges.  

Domestic Violence and Assault crimes follow the same pattern.  There's an allegation of violence after the fact or you the person being investigated has left the scene without being able to give you side of the story.  The "victim" is the only one making statements, and because you're not present, you suddenly become the bad guy who ran when in-fact your flight or disappearance has more to do with avoiding a dangerous situation yourself.

A person investigated and/or charged with a crime has the absolute right to refuse to speak to the police department about the case.  Making incriminating statements about your case in the investigation stage could give the police the final piece of evidence they need to charge the crime.  Many times, the police department don't have enough evidence and are looking for the suspect to fill in the missing pieces.  Even a statement which seems completely innocent to you could be the key difference between being charged with a serious felony and never being charged. Despite what you see on television, it is generally not very helpful to speak to the police about your case.  If you wish to offer your own version of the story or clarify something, it is best to speak to an attorney before proceeding in this direction. 

A person no matter their financial situation is not entitled to an attorney in the investigation stage or at their arraignment.  Having a private attorney during these crucial steps could be the difference between being charged with a crime or not being charged, and sitting in jail during your case, or being home with your family, and preparing for your trial with your attorney in his/her office.  

I have had a lot success representing clients in the investigation stage. In many of these cases, I have been able to end the investigation with all charges being denied, or have lesser charges brought (misdemeanor instead of felony).  Many times our client's initial inclination was to speak to the police about the case, to "clear things up" but make the right decision to speak to an attorney before proceeding.  Once advised by an attorney, the client is in a much better position to make the right decision.  I have used a number of effective techniques in the investigation stage; one technique is a private polygraph, which the results are protected by the attorney-client privilege   

Once you hire me to represent you in your investigation, I will take over all communication with the police department, and are able to engage in meaningful dialogue with law enforcement and the prosecuting attorney.  We will be able to keep you updated on the process and inform you if and when charges may or may not be brought against you. If charges are filed, I will ask the police and almost always get the courtesy to arrange to bring you to a "walk-in arraignment" rather than have you arrested at home or at work. This arrangement saves the client the embarrassment of a public arrest, and is a major asset in convincing a judge to set a personal recognizance or an affordable bond.

Lawyer Jonathan Paul | Top Attorney Criminal Defense

Call Me: (248) 924-9458
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