I am unsure if I have committed a criminal offence. What should I do?
Key Points:
- Contact a criminal defence lawyer as soon as possible.
- The lawyer can assess if you have committed any offence.
- You can put your mind at ease if you know you have not committed any offence.
- You have a right against self-incrimination.
- The lawyer can better prepare you for the police’s questioning process.
If you are unsure whether you have committed a criminal offence, it is vital to seek legal advice from a lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced criminal defence lawyer can go over the details of your particular case, carefully evaluate any possible legal implications, and thereafter advise you on the best course of action. Depending on the circumstances, seeking legal advice may be necessary to protect your rights and interests.
Time is of the essence. You can expect that the police will be swift to investigate the matter and bring you in for questioning. While you are required to tell the police what you know of the facts of a suspected crime, this legal obligation does not apply if those facts would incriminate you. What you may wish to tell the police and how you may wish to do so will depend on whether you have indeed committed a criminal offence in the first place. By having sought legal advice beforehand, you are better equipped to deal with the situation.
You can have greater peace of mind if you know conclusively your actions do not constitute a criminal offence. However, if the facts reveal that you have committed a criminal offence, we can prepare you for the questioning process by the police. This will allow you to better understand your rights, understand what the police expect from you, and protect your rights during the course of the questioning.
Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to criminal law, as each case carries its own distinct set of facts and challenges. It is therefore important to have the guidance of an experienced criminal defence counsel who can provide you with accurate and tailored advice. We can help you navigate the criminal justice system, protect your rights, and minimize any potential legal consequences you may be facing.