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Being arrested for suspicion of a drug-related crime in San Antonio can be a stressful and scary experience. However, while it may seem like there is little that you can do to help yourself in this instance, it is important to understand that there are mistakes you can avoid that can benefit your case. Below we will go over some of these common mistakes and also discuss how an experienced San Antonio criminal defense attorney can help you in these situations.
Consenting to a Search
Even if police officers can legally pull your car over for a traffic infraction, they need more than suspicion to be able to search your vehicle or property. That is why when these officers ask to search your car or belongings, consenting to this search can be a huge mistake.
If you consent to this search, you are giving up a possible opportunity to contest the legality of the search in court. Remember, if the police had a lawful authority to look through your things, they would not have to ask for your permission.
However, if you refuse to consent to the search, the officers will need to rely on another source of authority for their investigation. If they do not have one, an experienced San Antonio criminal defense attorney can use this to help your case.
Discussing the Situation With Friends and Family
While you may believe that discussing an arrest with friends and family may be a great way to come up with ideas on what to do next or release some stress and anxiety, you should not do it. Why? Because these individuals may become witnesses, and investigators can talk to them as part of the investigation to find out what they know.
In addition, if your friends or family do not recall what you said and there are discrepancies in the stories, it can result in even more problems for your case. For these reasons, do not talk about what happened with anyone but your attorney.
Making Statements to the Police
Following an arrest, you have a right to remain silent. You also have a right to have an attorney present during police questioning. However, if you do not invoke these rights, you give them up. As a result, everything you say to the police or in their presence can be used against you.
That is why, even if you think you can talk your way out of trouble, you should remain silent and refuse to speak to the officers until an attorney is with you.
To invoke these rights, all you need to say is, “I want a lawyer before I answer any questions,” or “I am not speaking without an attorney present.”
Contact an Experienced San Antonio Criminal Defense Attorney Today
If you have been arrested or charged with a drug-related crime, contact an experienced San Antonio criminal defense attorney at Krause Law Firm to schedule a free case consultation and learn how our legal team can help protect and defend your legal rights and freedom.