Emilia Irene Beskind

Stay calm, do not resist, and clearly say you want to remain silent and want a lawyer. Then stop talking about your case, including to people in jail, on the phone, or online. Anything you say can be used later.

In most situations you have the right to remain silent, and using that right cannot be held against you. Give your name when required, but you can say something like: I do not want to answer questions without my lawyer present.

Felonies are the more serious class of crime and can carry prison time, while misdemeanors are generally punished by fines, community service or county jail time. The difference affects your rights, your record and your future, so it is worth understanding exactly what you were charged with.

The first appearance is usually short: the court confirms who you are, tells you the charges, and may address conditions of release or a lawyer. You normally do not present evidence or argue your case that day.

A plea deal is a decision that can affect your record, your license, your job and your immigration situation, so it should never be rushed. A defense lawyer can review the evidence against you and explain what the offer really trades away before you decide.