Understanding Your Legal Rights in Criminal Matters

When facing any type of criminal charges, it is important to know that you possess certain rights:

• You have the right to remain silent.

• You have the right to be informed of any charges being brought against you.

• You have the right to consult with an attorney.

• You have the right to refuse a field sobriety test.

• You can request independent testing for blood alcohol concentration.

• You can contest the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license.

• You are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

• You have the right to confront any witnesses in court.

• You have the right to examine any evidence being used against you in your trial.

• You have the right to challenge probable cause.

• You can subpoena witnesses to testify on your behalf during your trial or a hearing.

• You have the right to interview law enforcement witnesses prior to your trial, and to compel their deposition if they fail to cooperate.

Without knowledge of these rights, it leaves the opportunity for law enforcement agencies to take advantage of you. Also, when being arrested, you must be read your Miranda rights, which inform you of your basic rights against self-incrimination. These stated rights, however, do not encompass all areas of the law that may affect you in your case, so it is absolutely necessary to obtain the qualified assistance of a criminal defense attorney before proceeding any further after your arrest.