You may think that you should never consult a lawyer if you are innocent. However, there are many reasons an innocent person might want or even need to speak with a defense attorney. Arson and criminal damage cases, accidents, and personal injury claims can often be complicated and best navigated through professional legal counsel. However, no matter what situation you are in, it is essential to know when you should always have a legal advocate. Read on for some situations where consulting an attorney can help your case.
False Sexual Accusations
No matter what the provocation, no one has a right to accuse you falsely of any crime. No means no, and that’s all there is to it. However, people are often falsely accused of crimes they did not commit. In the case of rape or sexual assault, the consequences for being wrongly convicted can be severe. It is imperative that if someone says you have been involved in a sex crime, even as an accomplice, you seek legal advice before speaking to anyone else about your side of the story. However, if you have been accused of a sex crime, even if it never happened, a Rape Lawyer in Wichita can help you defend yourself against false accusations. The lawyer will be your biggest ally in this situation and can help you deal with the media about the allegations and even how to approach a plea deal.
When Someone is Trying to Defraud You
You may be sure that you are not committing fraud, but others might accuse you of it. It can be hard to prove yourself innocent or understand what makes something fraudulent in the eyes of the law. If someone accuses you of fraud, you need to speak with an attorney as soon as possible for the best results. A white-collar crime lawyer can help explain your situation and how you should proceed with the case against you. Contacting an attorney will allow them to begin working on your defense so that they have ample time to find evidence or talk with witnesses who could forgive you before the trial starts.
Estate Planning and Probate Disputes
Another case where you must speak with an attorney even if you are innocent is any dispute over estate planning or probate issues. A will may be contested for many reasons, some even entirely unfair to current beneficiaries (such as extended lost relatives suddenly surfacing). If someone challenges the validity of your will, this can lead to court cases and all sorts of legal fees. The best thing for everyone involved in any aspect of estate disputes is to have a lawyer by your side from the beginning.
Divorce
While there are some divorce procedures where you do not need legal advice if it is contested or of a complex nature, you will want someone with experience on your side. Similarly, your spouse might be trying to gain any of your property or assets by accusing you of manipulating the system through false claims. Having an attorney on hand can help fight against these allegations and give you better chances of retaining your rights. Again, having an attorney by your side during all divorce proceedings can bring about a more favorable outcome for everyone involved.
Crime Victims
If you are the victim of a crime or your loved one has been accused of hurting someone, it is essential to seek advice from an attorney before speaking with law enforcement. This is especially true in cases such as domestic violence, where an abuser may be trying to get out of serious charges against them by telling law enforcement that they acted defensively and were only protecting themselves. However, if you have been attacked or your property damaged through no fault on your part, it is best to consult with legal counsel first and foremost before speaking with the police.
When You’ve Been Arrested
In certain situations, being arrested could be considered the same as being guilty in some people’s minds. For example, if you were arrested for a sex crime, all of your friends and family will likely turn their back on you as far as support goes. In addition to being an emotionally draining experience, being arrested can cause long-lasting damage to your reputation. If you have been wrongfully accused or been caught up in a more extensive investigation involving co-conspirators, having a legal representative with your side from the beginning can lessen the chances of conviction during the trial.
Being accused of a crime can be extremely difficult on your own. Even if you are innocent, people may doubt you just because you have been arrested. Having a lawyer to fight for your rights can make all the difference in court regarding whether or not you are convicted. In cases such as those listed above, you must seek legal advice as soon as possible, no matter how innocent you may be.
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