Recommended Tips to Prepare for Your Criminal Trial

ByEoin Morgan

When you are accused of a criminal offense, you may feel as though the whole world is against you. That could not be further from the truth. As a matter of fact, you are innocent until the prosecution proves you guilty. Therefore, your fate will depend on the trial and the evidence you present to dispute the accusations. In this blog, you will gain insight into recommended tips to help you prepare for your criminal case.

Step 1: Understand Your Rights 

Even when facing criminal charges, the US Constitution entitles you to some rights and protections. And while every state, South Carolina included, may have nuanced criminal laws, the bill of rights in the US Constitution are afforded to every American citizen. Some of those rights are the following: 

  • The Right to a Speedy Trial- The Sixth Amendment grants you the right to a speedy trial so that you are not kept behind bars for long without resolution.
  • The Right to a Jury- You are entitled to a jury, though many jurisdictions like South Carolina allow defendants to waive this provision in favor of a bench trial. However, this decision is to be yours and yours alone. 
  • The Right Against Self-Incrimination- You cannot be forced to testify against your interest at trial, or forced to talk to the police during an investigation concerning criminal activity. 

Step 2: Gather Evidence 

You should also gather any proof that may help with the case. Documents that may prove useful include:

  • Police and Accident Reports
  • Property deeds 
  • Employment records 
  • Medical record
  • Contracts 
  • Any other useful document 

This information will be pivotal to proving your side of the story and, depending on its credibility, even help you win. 

Step 3: Consult a Criminal Defense Attorney 

Though you can waive the right to an attorney, it is generally ill-advised. In light of this, it’s best to meet with several attorneys, through initial consultations, which are mostly free, to find the ideal one. 

Carry all the available evidence to the meeting. It will be a chance for both of you to determine whether you can form a working relationship. 

As such, interview the lawyer, asking thorough questions like whether attorney-client privileges apply even if you end up not hiring them. Be sure to inquire about their payment structures: whether they will charge you on a contingency, flat fee, or hourly basis. In addition, request for their experience handling similar cases. You also want to know how they intend to communicate as the trial progresses. 

If the initial consultation is bound by attorney-client privilege, furnish them with all the details about the case, even those that paint you in a bad light.

 “Being dishonest with your criminal defense attorney is a big mistake. We need all the information we can get to mount a strong defense, and when our strategy is built on fabrication, the consequences can be dire,” says criminal attorney Christopher L. Jones. 

Also Read: Criminal Restitution: Repaying Victims for Damages

Conclusion 

When facing criminal charges, following the tips outlined in our blog can help prepare for your case. A knowledgeable South Carolina criminal defense lawyer can explain your rights and protections, ensure they are upheld through the process, and advocate for your best interest in defending the criminal charge. 

Eoin Morgan

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