In Maryland, there are two basic ways a criminal defendant can be arrested. The first is by police officers at or near the scene of a crime based on actual criminal activity or because of evidence of a crime. The other method is through the process of investigation and submission of evidence to a grand jury. Grand juries are different than the juries used for criminal trials (and the ones you might see on TV or in films). Grand juries are used at the beginning of a criminal case and are basically asked to say whether there is enough evidence for the police to make an arrest. This is a very low threshold, and grand juries routinely say “yes” to an arrest.

The target of a grand jury investigation often has some warning that an investigation is pending since friends, co-workers, family members, and others known to the target are often asked for information and evidence. Through hints and other subtle indications, the target has an opportunity to prepare. If you are being investigated for a crime or suspect an investigation is ongoing, the first thing to do is contact experienced Maryland criminal defense attorneys. Defending against criminal charges begins right at the beginning of the criminal justice process. Call or contact us here at the Law Office of Robert Castro. We are experienced and trusted Calvert County, MD., criminal defense attorneys who can provide specific legal counsel on how to handle a grand jury or police investigation. Contact us by calling our number (301) 870-1200 or by using our contact page. We have offices in Waldorf, MD, and are available 24/7. Delay can endanger your defense and make matters worse.

What else should you do? – In addition to retaining tough and dedicated Maryland criminal defense attorneys, you should be careful about what you say and do. Be aware that what you say to friends and others can be discovered by the investigators and, potentially, used against you in the grand jury proceedings and at trial.

Likewise, do not speak to police or prosecuting attorneys without your lawyer being present. The police and justice officials are trained in how to elicit incriminating statements from those under investigation. Highly-rated defense attorneys know the “tricks” and can help you avoid them.

In addition, begin gathering documents and locating witnesses who provide exculpatory evidence. Consider possible defenses like alibi or mistake. If the alleged crime occurred in a particular location and at a particular time, gather evidence that shows you were someplace else when the crime was committed.

Some things to NOT do – Do NOT attempt to destroy what you may think to be incriminating evidence or tamper with witnesses by, for example, trying to get them to change “their story.” Attempting these things only makes matters worse. Efforts to destroy evidence and tamper with witnesses usually do not succeed. The police and prosecutors often discover the efforts and will definitely try to use the efforts to create distrust and disbelieve you. Further, evidence destruction and witness tampering will lead to more criminal charges, such as obstruction of justice.

Contact Waldorf, Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer Robert Castro Today

This article has been provided by the Law Office of Robert Castro. For more information or questions, contact our office to speak to an experienced Maryland criminal defense lawyer at (301) 870-1200. We are Waldorf, MD, Criminal Defense lawyers. Our address is 2670 Crain Highway, Waldorf, MD 20601.