When out of state, individuals are often unaware of the various laws in any particular state. It is common for people to be accused of a criminal act while visiting another state for work or vacation.
It is important to understand your rights and legal options if you are accused of a criminal offense while out of town. An experienced attorney could help you understand what to do if charged with a crime while visiting Montgomery County.
Retain the Services of An Attorney
The most important thing you can do after being charged with a crime is to speak with a criminal defense counsel as soon as possible. The prosecution has already filed charges, therefore, giving them a head start. In addition, the police have reason to believe that you are responsible. To fight that charge, you need to speak with a lawyer to discuss your options.
You should have active communication with your attorney and let them know where you reside so they can assist you in requesting afternoon hearing times, especially since you will be traveling from another state and may need extra time to get to court. Unfortunately, you may not always be able to go home as some individuals are restricted from traveling while the charges are still pending.
Collect Evidence
The defendant and his or her attorney need to investigate, gather and retain all evidence, whether it is digital or tangible such as contact information from a person who mentioned that they were there and saw what happened. It is essential to record documentation of the witness, or the prosecution may argue the admissibility of the evidence.
A lawyer will also help you preserve all the evidence to support you, such as subpoenaing a surveillance camera within 30 days (before the tapes are erased). The charged person needs to be mindful while speaking to the police and other witnesses about the case and should direct questions to his or her attorney to ensure the defendant is in the best position to address their criminal case in Montgomery County.
Speak To Witnesses
Your lawyer may help you create a list of other people who can become witnesses for you to help you with your case. A witness will testify in court either willingly or unwillingly as a subpoena can be issued, and they will be forced into the court by the prosecution.
Since a witness is testifying on the defendant’s behalf, the witness can be asked about the conversations they have had with the defendant. It is crucial to limit your conversation about the case with other people and should not discuss the case with law enforcement unless a lawyer is present.
Transfer Monetary Charges To Home State
Out-of-state or out-of-country clients will want to resolve their cases as soon as possible to avoid expensive travel expenses. After being accused of committing a criminal offense such as violating a traffic offense, individuals should try and transfer penalties or fines to his or her home state.
The attorney can try to minimize the number of court dates that you are required to appear. If you are ordered by a judge to be present for each court date, your attorney may aid you with getting a longer court date, which will minimize the times you will have to make the long-distance travel to attend court hearings.
An experienced criminal defense lawyer may help you get the charges moved to your home state. However, in some instances, you may not be able to transfer charges depending on the crimes brought against you.
An Attorney Could Help you with your Criminal Case
Being charged with a crime can be difficult, especially when you do not live in that state. When you are accused of committing a criminal offense, it is critical to hire a skilled defense attorney. Price Benowitz LLP has expansive experience in helping individuals fight their criminal cases. He will fight to protect your rights and help you reach a favorable outcome in your case.
Schedule a consultation today to learn about how the skilled legal team at Price Benowitz LLP could help your case.