Criminal Law Services in San Diego
Being arrested for a crime can be one of the most frightening events you may experience. Will you end up losing your freedom? How can you get your side of the situation heard?
And who will go to bat for you when you need help the most?
Fortunately, I, attorney Michael C. MacNeil, have the expertise you need to combat a wide variety of criminal charges. I am a leading criminal law attorney in San Diego who is passionate about making sure that my clients are treated justly in today’s criminal justice system.
Aggressively Pursuing Fair Resolutions for Your Criminal Legal Matters
You may feel that the odds are stacked against you if you are facing a criminal charge. Having dedicated criminal representation may end up being the difference between receiving probation and jail time, or suffering a misdemeanor or felony conviction that could have been avoided.
Being charged with a crime is a high-stakes situation that demands aggressive action. As your criminal law attorney in San Diego, I will get to work on your behalf immediately. You cannot afford to waste time in locating favorable defense witnesses and evidence. I will take the necessary steps to give you the head start you need to get you the best result possible.
Client Support
As your criminal defense attorney in San Diego, I realize that dealing with a criminal charge is stressful. Therefore, I will not add more stress to your situation by being hard to reach. I prioritize your needs, so you can rest assured that you will be able to reach me when you need me. In addition to offering you first-class legal representation, I will guide you through complex issues to help with the emotional and moral uncertainties that may arise throughout your case.
WHAT TO DO AFTER A SAN DIEGO ARREST
If you have just been arrested in San Diego or anywhere in California for any reason, follow these simple tips in order not to run aground and to give yourself the best possible chance for a positive outcome.
EXERCISE YOUR RIGHT TO SAY NOTHING
The Miranda Rights speech begins with “You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you in a court of law…” for a reason. The first, most important thing to do is remain silent. You are not going to win supporters by being forthcoming. In addition to exercising the right to silence, do not sign any documents or confirm any ostensible evidence that may be presented to you.
The only thing to be said either before or after the Miranda reading is, “I choose to remain silent. I want to contact my attorney.”
CALL A DEFENSE ATTORNEY WHO KNOWS THE TERRITORY
If you don’t have an attorney or you would prefer not to have an assigned public defender, then you need to retain an attorney. Just remember that attorneys all have their specialties, strengths, and experience. If you are arrested, then you need an attorney who specializes in criminal cases — with particular experience in the sort of case that you’re facing. All types of criminal law cases, whether some form of misdemeanor, domestic violence, DUI, homicide, or other felony charges, all follow established case law in terms of their adjudication. So, it’s important to select an attorney with practical experience handling the sort of case being brought against you.
COMMUNICATE ONLY WITH YOUR ATTORNEY REGARDING THE CASE
Do not speak with anyone — including close family members and friends — about the charges you are facing. Remember that a friend or family member can be deposed and forced to testify against you. The less your loved ones know about the specifics of your case, the better. While this advice may seem difficult if not impossible to follow, simply stick to the fact of the charge, the effect it’s having on you, and thank them for being a positive and supportive presence in your life. But resist the urge to “tell your side of the story” to anyone other than your attorney.
FOLLOW GOOD ADVICE. OR GET NEW ADVICE.
After choosing an attorney based on his or her knowledge, experience, and track record, do yourself the favor of following their advice. While attorneys don’t expect their clients to meekly defer in all matters, it’s crucial to follow their advice. If you’re uncertain as to why an attorney is making a particular recommendation, then ask your attorney, “Why?” A good attorney should be able and willing to provide you with their rationale. If you find yourself at odds with your attorney, then consider the need to get new representation.
MAKING THE BEST OF A BAD SITUATION
While following this advice won’t ensure that you’ll quickly put a criminal matter behind you, it will go a long way toward ensuring that you’ll achieve the best possible outcome. For immediate help, contact me today for a free case evaluation.
Seek Help from Michael C. MacNeil Today
If you’re searching for an experienced and highly-skilled criminal defense attorney in San Diego, you can rest assured that I will give you the full attention and time you deserve to get you the best possible results. I am invested in your case’s outcome and will personally work alongside you to pursue the best one possible given the circumstances surrounding your case.
Contact me today for a free consultation to find out more about how an experienced criminal defense attorney in San Diego can help you to protect your freedom and your long-term future.