Under Investigation? You Don't Have to Wait to Be Charged
Many people assume there is nothing they can do until formal charges are filed. However, some of the most important work in a criminal case may happen before charges are ever filed.
If you know you are being investigated, have been contacted by law enforcement, asked for a statement, or believe that criminal charges are coming, speaking with an attorney as soon as possible will put you in a much stronger position moving forward.
What Is a Pre-Filing Investigation?
A pre-filing investigation is the period before criminal charges are formally filed. During this stage, law enforcement may be gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, reviewing records, and speaking with prosecutors about charges. By the time an arrest occurs, investigators may have already spent weeks or months building a case.
Why Hire an Attorney Before Charges Are Filed?
Because so much of a case may develop before charges are filed, waiting until after an arrest to seek legal help can be a costly mistake.
Early involvement may allow an attorney to communicate with investigators, help prevent unnecessary mistakes, gather evidence, and begin preparing a defense before charge decisions are final. In some situations, information presented during investigation stages may influence charging decisions and impact how a case moves forward.
The earlier an attorney becomes involved, the more opportunities there may be to put yourself in the strongest position possible.
Don't Wait for an Arrest to Get Help
Reach out today to speak with an experienced defense attorney.
Signs You May Be Under Investigation
Sometimes the signs are obvious. Other times, people do not realize they have been investigated until charges are already filed.
You may want to speak with an attorney if law enforcement has contacted you, asked to speak with you about an incident, requested a statement, executed a search warrant, or if you believe someone has made allegations against you. Even just hearing that detectives are asking questions about you can be enough of a reason to seek legal guidance.
What Can an Attorney Do Before Charges Are Filed?
Communicate with law enforcement
Help avoid unnecessary mistakes
Gather evidence for your defense
Preserve important records and witness information
Prepare for possible filing decisions
Begin developing a defense strategy
Frequently Asked Questions
Don't Wait for Charges to Be Filed
Protect your rights, avoid costly mistakes, and start building your defense before charges are ever filed.