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What to Do if You Are Arrested

Posted on in Criminal Defense

IL defense lawyerFor many of us, the idea of being arrested for a crime is as terrifying a thought as anything that can be conjured in our minds. The thought of being handcuffed and led away in a police vehicle is incomprehensible to most people. As a result, being arrested can be a deeply traumatic experience. Still, staying calm and taking the necessary steps to protect yourself legally from further legal trouble is essential. Today, we will discuss what you should do if you are arrested. Remember, the best way to fight a criminal charge is by hiring an experienced and knowledgeable criminal defense attorney to ensure your rights are adequately protected, and a favorable case outcome can be pursued.

Tips On How to Act After Being Arrested

Here are some tips on how to act after being arrested, including:

  • Stay silent – The first and arguably most important thing to do after being arrested is to stay silent. You have the right to remain silent, so exercise this right! Anything you say can be used as evidence, so a best practice is to say nothing at all.
  • Ask for a lawyer – The second thing to do after being arrested is to ask for a lawyer. You have the right to a lawyer; exercising that right as soon as possible is vital. If you cannot afford a lawyer, one will be appointed to you. Remember, anything you say to your lawyer is confidential and cannot be used against you in court.
  • Be compliant – While staying silent and asking for a lawyer is important, it is also important to cooperate with the police. You should refrain from resisting arrest or arguing with the police, as this will likely worsen things. Instead, remain calm and follow the instructions of the police.
  • Provide basic information – You should provide police with basic information such as your name and address. However, do not provide any other information or answer any questions without a lawyer present.
  • Contact a friend or family member – After being arrested, you should contact a friend or family member and let them know what has happened. They may be able to provide support and help you find an attorney.

Contact a Chicago, IL Criminal Defense Attorney

Contact the experienced Chicago, IL criminal defense lawyers with Law Offices of Hal M. Garfinkel LLC, Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney to vigorously protect your rights and guide you through this difficult time. Do not wait to call an attorney. Contact 312-629-0669 for a free consultation.

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IL defense lawyerIf your spouse faces federal white-collar crime charges, you may be at a loss as to what to do next. This time is likely incredibly stressful and confusing for you and your spouse. As a result, if your spouse has been charged with a federal crime, there are important things you need to keep in mind to help navigate this difficult situation. If your spouse has not already done so, strongly advise them to consult with a criminal defense attorney.

Make no mistake: the feds do not fool around. As a result, your spouse may be in serious legal jeopardy. An attorney can help ensure your spouse’s rights are respected, and a positive outcome can be pursued.

Here is What You Should Keep in Mind if Your Spouse is Facing Federal Charges

Here are some things you should keep in mind, including:

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IL defense lawyerA federal crime is a criminal offense that is prosecuted under federal law rather than state law. These crimes may be investigated by federal agencies such as the FBI, DEA, ATF, and more. So, what exactly makes a crime a federal crime? If you are ever charged with a federal crime, understand that you are in serious legal jeopardy. To ensure your rights are respected and that you know your legal options, contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.

Everything You Need to Know About Federal Crimes

As stated at the outset, a federal crime is a crime that violates federal law. Federal law is created by congress and covers a wide range of crimes, including but not limited to drug trafficking, money laundering, bank fraud, terrorism, and more. These crimes are prosecuted in federal court and are subject to federal sentencing guidelines, which can result in harsher penalties than those under state law.

Secondly, a crime can be considered a federal crime if it occurs on federal property. This can include crimes on military bases, national parks, or other federal property. Furthermore, crimes committed on airlines registered in the United States are also considered federal crimes, regardless of where they occur.

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Chicago white collar crime lawyerFederal white-collar crimes are non-violent offenses that are generally financially motivated and may involve different types of fraud, embezzlement, money laundering, bribery, and similar offenses. While these types of crimes are usually associated with high-profile cases, there are still many misconceptions about what they are, how they are prosecuted, and the potential consequences. Today, we will discuss common misconceptions regarding federal white-collar crimes. If you are ever charged with a federal white-collar crime, please understand that you are in serious legal jeopardy and should strongly consider hiring a criminal defense attorney who will work to ensure your rights are protected.

Myths Regarding Federal White-Collar Crime

Here are some common misconceptions regarding federal white-collar crime, including:

  • They are victimless crimes – One of the most common misconceptions is that white-collar crimes are victimless. However, this is far from the truth. White-collar crimes can have a devastating impact on individuals, businesses, and even entire industries. For example, types of fraud or insider trading schemes can result in substantial financial losses that hugely damage people's lives. 

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Cook County money laundering defense lawyerMoney laundering is a serious federal crime involving disguising the proceeds of criminal activity as legitimate funds. Money laundering is considered a white-collar crime, which many people incorrectly believe makes it less severe of an offense. However, this is untrue, as many white-collar crimes such as money laundering are prosecuted seriously and carry stiff penalties. 

It cannot be understated that if you are charged with money laundering, it is in your best interest to contact a federal crimes defense attorney who has defended clients in white-collar cases before. Your attorney will be able to guide you through the legal process while also acting as an advocate on your behalf as you work towards obtaining a positive outcome in your case.

What Does the Law Say?

Federal law defines money laundering as knowingly engaging in a financial transaction involving property derived from illegal activity with the intent to promote unlawful activity or evade taxes, reporting, or other legal requirements. This can include depositing or withdrawing large amounts of cash, transferring funds between accounts, or purchasing high-value assets with funds known or suspected to be derived from illegal activity.  

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