Essex County Criminal Defense Attorney

What to do after an arrest?

When emotions like fear and anger surface after an arrest, people make poor decisions that can jeopardize their cases.  Here are a few steps you can take to help your situation:

- Remain silent:  Give the police no information except your name and address.  Do not try to convince the officer of your innocence.
- Think carefully:  Consider your movements and body language.  Do not resist arrest even if you believe you are innocent.  Swatting away the hand of an officer can be construed as assault or resisting arrest.
- Take mental notes:  Remember details surrounding the scene of the crime including your location, time of day, and presence of witnesses.  Take stock of any injuries sustained and try to record the badge number and patrol car number of the arresting officer.
- Contact a lawyer:  You have the right to make a single local phone call after your arrest.  Contact an Essex County criminal defense attorney before talking with anyone.

The role of your attorney after an arrest

A qualified attorney from a criminal defense law firm in Essex County can provide you with competent legal representation, giving you the best chance for a successful outcome in court. When faced with a serious charge, an Essex County criminal attorney can:

•    Provide an objective view of the situation and the potential outcomes
•    Devote the time and effort needed to research all available legal avenues
•    Gather information from witnesses and prosecution attorneys
•    Uncover obscure legal rules and local court customs to give you an edge in court
•    Hire investigators to find discrediting evidence against prosecution and its witnesses
•    Negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or lessen your sentencing

An arrest in Middlesex County, Sussex County, or Essex County should be handled by someone intimately familiar with New Jersey criminal law.

It takes an attorney with the confidence and experience of a former prosecutor to properly deal with authorities when it comes to defending you against criminal charges.  If you have been accused or charged with such a crime, please do not hesitate to contact Mr. Bellizia immediately.  Criminal matters are not problems that will go away when ignored.  Early intervention in criminal matters, may achieve outstanding results, and will be instrumental to the outcome of your case. 
 
When you call us, you will get an immediate response.  Mr. Bellizia and his staff are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, holidays and weekends included.  Please do not hesitate to contact us now to arrange a free consultation.