Clients who know they are under police scrutiny often schedule an appointment to meet with one of the lawyers at COOK ATTORNEYS during the investigation, prior to arrest.  Understanding the range of possible avenues early in the process is very important, and occasionally we can assist a client in avoiding arrest or selecting an option prior to arrest that would have been foreclosed upon arrest.

It is important to understand your rights; and it is important to have an attorney who can help you understand your rights in the context of your specific situation.  You have the right to remain silent, and - as a rule of thumb - it is best to exercise that right and remain silent until you have spoken with an experienced criminal defense lawyer.  A person in a difficult position ought to be respectful and cooperative, yet firm, in invoking his right to remain silent, even as a police officer tries to manipulate him to believe that it would be best to waive that constitutional right.  It is counterintuitive, but even innocent people - especially innocent people - ought to remain silent until they have spoken with an experienced local criminal defense attorney.  There will be plenty of time later to explain; make sure you explain properly and in the appropriate setting!

Experienced. Local. Effective.