Being accused of a crime is never a pleasant situation to find oneself in, especially if you know you are innocent and are desperate to prove it. A crucial aspect of this situation that will always be important to consider is that you have legal rights, and these should be protected. However, sometimes that means standing up for them yourself or seeking help with it. In this post, we are going to discuss some of the legal rights you have when you are accused of a crime and how to make sure they are being protected effectively.
The Right To Remain Silent
This is one that you will certainly have heard of, as it is so well-known and fundamental. When you are arrested, you have the right to remain silent. That might not sound like much, but it’s a hugely fundamental part of your freedom, and it’s something that you are going to want to make use of. In essence, it means that you should avoid saying anything at all until your lawyer is present, when they can advise you as to what you need to do. It’s not only that anything you say can be used against you in court – it probably will be.
The Right To An Attorney
Despite what you are being accused of, you have the right to an attorney. So it doesn’t matter what the supposed crime is; this is something that you are entitled to. It might be that you have been accused of a sexual crime, in which case you have the right to sexual offence solicitors representing you in court and being with you in questioning and so on. This is so fundamental that you need to ensure you are utilising it – it is rarely a good idea to represent yourself.
The Right To Know The Charges Against You
You are entitled to know what you are being charged with, in full and exact terms. This again is a very basic thing, but you’d be amazed at how often it is not given. You should technically receive formal notice through a document called a complaint or an indictment. This gives you a chance to prepare your defence, and it’s also something that you are legally owed. If you are not furnished with it, you can ask to see the official charges in writing – don’t just rely on verbal explanations.
The Right To A Fair Trial
People often know about the right to a fair trial – but did you know that part of this is a right to a speedy trial. In other words, your trial should not drag out indefinitely, and it is something that should proceed in a reasonable time frame. At the same time, it should be fair, with an impartial judge and jury. If your trial is delayed too much or isn’t fair, then your lawyer can file motions expressing that, and potentially have it thrown out.
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