White-collar crimes are non-violent, but if you’re convicted of one, then the punishment can be severe. These crimes can be devastating for the accused, upturning your entire life if you’re convicted. It’ll take a highly skilled white collar crime lawyer in Houston to protect your interests if you’ve been accused of a white-collar crime.
7 Ways a White Collar Crime Lawyer in Houston Can Protect Your Interests
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1. Mitigating Criminal Liability
If you’ve been accused of committing a white-collar crime, then one of your attorney’s main goals will be mitigating criminal liability. Their aim is to get you a reduced penalty or, if possible, prove your innocence entirely. An experienced attorney will have the best shot at building you a case that helps mitigate criminal liability.
Click here to learn about the potential defenses your attorney may use. You can also use the linked page to get in touch with an attorney to evaluate your case.
2. Protecting You From Violation
Sometimes the other side will violate the rules to attempt to build their case. Your attorney will do everything they can to protect you against violations of procedures. If your attorney believes or discovers procedures have been violated, then they’ll usually bring this to the attention of the court. Coerced confession is one violation that your attorney seeks to protect you from.
3. Being Present With You
Your attorney should be there for you throughout the entirety of your case, including the investigation stage. Your attorney will be present during questioning and any other situations where you shouldn’t be without legal representation. They’ll be able to offer advice on what questions you should and shouldn’t answer, and they may speak in your defense throughout the various stages of the investigation. Your attorney will also generally be attentive enough to ensure the government follows proper protocols while investigating your crimes. Finally, your attorney will make sure you’re aware of your rights throughout the entire case.
4. Negotiating a Plea Bargain
Your attorney wants to get you the lightest sentence possible, and they also usually want to get through the case without having to go to court. If possible, your attorney may attempt to negotiate a
plea bargain for you to do this. They typically negotiate with the government entities investigating the crime to see what can be done for you. If you accept a plea bargain, then you may still be charged and penalized, but you’ll usually avoid going to court. The punishment may also be less severe if you accept a plea bargain. Your entire livelihood is at stake when you’re accused of a white-collar crime, and your attorney wants to protect you from losing your property, your ability to work in the future, and your monetary assets.
5. Summoning Witnesses
Your attorney may speak to witnesses who can make statements in your defense. Your attorney may also consult other relevant parties, such as experts relevant to the case, to make statements. In some cases, your attorney may speak to witnesses who can argue that the accusations against you are most likely false.
6. Representing You in Court
Your attorney must have ample courtroom experience, as they may have to represent you in court if your case goes to trial. In court, they’ll present your case, try to get the judge and jury to listen to the argument, and present evidence in your favor. They’ll also generally cross-examine the prosecutor’s case against you. An experienced and dedicated attorney will do everything they can to protect your interests while arguing your case in court.
7. Filing Appeals
If the court made an unfair ruling, then your attorney may file an appeal to have your case re-evaluated. It’s crucial you work with a dedicated attorney who won’t give up on you as soon as the court makes a decision. The best attorneys will be there for you for as long as you need them.
Do I Still Need an Attorney If I’m Innocent?
You need an attorney even if you didn’t do anything you’re being accused of. In fact, you need an attorney even if you were unaware crimes were being committed at work before you were accused of being involved. The prosecution will usually have a very strong case with lots of evidence that you won’t be able to dispute on your own. Work with an attorney who’ll attempt to cross-examine the case against you and provide evidence to prove your innocence. Your attorney should do everything necessary to protect your interests while arguing your case and attempting to get you as low a sentence as possible. Your attorney doesn’t want you being accused of a white-collar crime to ruin your life, so be honest, listen to their advice, and do everything you can to help them build you a solid case in your defense.