Understanding Your Rights as a Criminal Defendant

Nashville Criminal Defense Attorney

Being arrested is a very drastic, humiliating action by the police:  you are handcuffed, detained, and jailed without any oversight until the next day when you are brought into the Court system.  You have constitutional rights!  First and foremost, just because your were arrested does not mean you are guilty.  Secondly, you have the right to have an attorney at all critical stages of the proceedings; until you speak to an attorney, DO NOT speak to police!!!  Lastly, you have a right to make a bond and be released from jail.

If arrested, do NOT talk to the police!  Talk to one of our criminal lawyers!

Immediately call our Emergency Number: 615-400-0200

Rights During Arrest

When you are arrested and charged with a crime, or if detained and issued a misdemeanor citation, you have the following constitutional rights, known as the Miranda rights:

1. The right to remain silent; anything you say can and will be used against you in a Court of law;
2. You have a right to an attorney, and to have the attorney present during questioning
3. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you.

Rights at Trial

You have rights that date back all the way to the ratification of the U.S. Constitution, which provides in the Sixth Amendment:

“In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the State and district wherein the crime shall have been committed, which district shall have been previously ascertained by law, and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor, and to have the Assistance of Counsel for his defense.”

Services Provided to Criminal Defendants

• At the arrest: Helping defendants understand issues surrounding the arrest and investigating all circumstances
• During the investigation: Staying on top of developments and if necessary, seeking experts to refute prosecution contentions
• Before the trial: Dealing with prosecutors on the extent of the charges
• During the trial: Guiding the testimony toward a successful outcome for the defendant
• After a conviction: Helping mitigate sentences
• Post-trial: Working to obtain an appeal of reversal, if necessary

Hire An Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney

If you or a friend or family member find themselves in a precarious criminal situation, the first action should be calling Turner Law Offices, P.C. and speaking with one of our criminal attorneys.  Only a qualified criminal defense attorney can help you through the difficult criminal justice process. Turner Law Offices, P.C., has been defending the accused for more than 20 years and our attorneys know the inside workings of the criminal justice system.  Request Free Initial Consultation Online or call our offices today to schedule your free, in person consultation with one of our criminal defense lawyers.

(615) 259-2660