Being the subject of a criminal investigation can be one of the most stressful and intimidating experiences an individual can go through. During the pre-arrest investigation phase of a criminal case, an active criminal investigation is underway but the individual under investigation has not been formally charged by the prosecutor or indicted by a grand jury. Grand juries are commonly used by federal, state and county prosecutors to investigate crimes and, in some circumstances, issue charges through an indictment or grand jury presentment.
What You Should Do if You Are Under Investigation
Many individuals under criminal investigation mistakenly believe that if they speak to or cooperate with law enforcement authorities, they can prevent the filing of criminal charges against them. During the interview process, law enforcement officials will often use deception or offer empty promises to gain a confession. In other cases, they will twist your words to make your statements appear incriminating or otherwise suggestive of criminal activity.
The Dangers of Speaking to the Police without a Lawyer
Many risks are involved in speaking to law enforcement officers without the assistance and advice of an experienced criminal defense lawyer. I can help you if you if you are under investigation for a crime and face questioning by the police or other law enforcement authorities.
In the majority of pre-arrest investigation cases, law enforcement officials have already concluded that you have committed a crime and have contacted you for an interview to attempt to strengthen their case by acquiring a confession to the crime. In most cases, a formal filing of criminal charges or the issuance of an indictment by a grand jury will occur after a pre-arrest investigation has concluded and investigative interview of the accused has taken place.
Experienced PA Criminal Defense
I have developed professional relationships with prosecutors, judges and law enforcement officials in Bucks County, Montgomery County and the neighboring counties. Having the representation of an experienced criminal defense lawyer during the pre-arrest investigation phase of a criminal case will ensure that your rights are protected and that all necessary steps are taken to reduce the chance that you will face criminal charges.
I have over a decade of experience providing skilled and aggressive representation to individuals facing pre-arrest or pre-indictment investigations in Bucks County, Montgomery County and the surrounding counties. Contact me at (215) 752-5282 for a free initial consultation or fill out the confidential contact form for an immediate response. Appointments are available after business hours and on weekends.
I Will Protect Your Rights Prior to Arrest
The pre-arrest or pre-indictment investigation stage is often the most critical phase of a criminal case. I will extensively review the specific circumstances of your case to determine why you are being investigated and immediately begin preparing the most effective defense strategy.
Monitoring the Police Investigation
I can monitor developments in the case by maintaining direct contact with the prosecutor and other law enforcement officials involved in conducting the investigation. Depending on the circumstances of the case, there are often many actions that can be taken to decrease the likelihood of the filing of criminal charges or the issuance of an indictment against you.
Pre-Arrest Defense Investigation
During the pre-arrest investigation phase, it is often necessary to conduct a comprehensive independent defense investigation. The defense investigation may include:
- Interviewing witnesses
- Preserving phone, text and other digital evidence
- Preserving other physical evidence
- Obtaining surveillance video
In some cases, the most effective legal strategy involves disclosing the evidence from the defense investigation to the prosecutor prior to trial in an effort to prevent the filing of criminal charges or the issuance of an indictment. Pre-trial disclosure of defense investigation evidence can often convince the prosecutor to file reduced or less-serious charges. In certain cases, it may be possible to avoid facing criminal charges by negotiating a financial settlement with the prosecutor to satisfy restitution claims.
Representation at Pre-Arrest Police Interviews
In some circumstances, I have accompanied individuals under investigation to a pre-arrest investigation interview with law enforcement agents in order to establish that they are factually innocent of the crimes or that they are being falsely accused of criminal activity. In other cases, I have been able to assist individuals establish their innocence by arranging for their participation in a polygraph test conducted by law enforcement officials. The particular facts of your case will determine the most appropriate legal strategy to use to protect your freedom.
Grand Jury Subpoena
Receiving a subpoena to appear before a grand jury can cause anxiety and confusion in most people. It is never a wise decision to appear before a grand jury without qualified legal representation and a thorough understanding of your constitutional rights, including the right against self-incrimination. I can give you specific guidance to protect your rights if you are subpoenaed to appear before a federal, state or county grand jury.
Defending Your Rights During the Arrest and Booking Process
In the event that you are facing criminal charges, I can make arrangements with prosecutors or other law enforcement officers for you to turn yourself into custody to avoid an arrest at your home or place of employment. I can accompany you to the police department or court for your turn-in, booking and 1st appearance or arraignment on the charges.
An individual turning himself or herself in to law enforcement to face criminal charges will be photographed and fingerprinted, and will be required to provide basic identifying information. At your 1st appearance in court before the judicial magistrate, I can argue for your release from custody on your own recognizance or on nominal bail. I can advise you and your family of the local bail bond procedures and address any other concerns that you may have.
Start with a Strong Defense
If you believe you are under investigation for a crime or are about to be arrested, it is critical that you act quickly to preserve your rights and build the strongest possible defense to the charges. Phone lines are open 24 hours a day at (215) 752-5282. Call today for a free initial consultation or fill out the confidential contact form for an immediate response.
