Being charged with a crime is one of the most stressful and confusing things a person will ever go through. Whether it’s a misdemeanor or a felony, the legal process is overwhelming if you don’t know what to do. In situations like this every decision matters. Sometimes the biggest mistakes are the ones you make early on.
If you are currently facing criminal charges in Michigan, it is important to know what to avoid just as much as what to do. When you are ready to get answers and protect your future, consider reaching out to the Law Office of James Fillmore for trusted legal guidance.
Talking to Police Without a Lawyer Present
One of the biggest mistakes people make after being charged or questioned in connection with a crime is talking to the police without having a lawyer present. It’s easy to want to explain yourself or clear things up especially if you think you did nothing wrong. But the reality is anything you say can be used against you later on and often in ways you didn’t expect.
Police officers are trained to ask questions in a way that seems harmless but are really designed to gather evidence. A small detail or a phrase can be taken out of context and used to build a case. Even if you’re just trying to be helpful your words can do more harm than good.
In Michigan you have the right to remain silent and to have an attorney with you during any questioning. If you’re approached by police the safest and smartest response is to clearly say you want to speak with a lawyer before answering any questions. This doesn’t make you look guilty. It just protects your rights and helps you from saying something that can hurt your case later.
Having a lawyer with you ensures you’re not going through this alone and gives you the support you need to respond in a way that doesn’t put your future at risk.
Posting on Social Media
When you are dealing with criminal charges, staying off social media is one of the simplest ways to avoid unnecessary problems. It may seem natural to update friends or share your thoughts, but anything you post online can easily be used against you in court.
Law enforcement and prosecutors often review social media activity while building a case. Even a comment or photo that seems harmless could be taken out of context or used to question your character. Posts from friends or tags in other people’s content can also become part of the investigation.
It is especially important not to talk about your case online. Sharing details, defending yourself, or reacting emotionally can lead to misunderstandings or even harm your legal position. Once something is online, you lose control over how far it spreads or how it is interpreted.
To protect yourself, it is best to take a break from posting until your case is resolved. If you are unsure whether something is okay to share, ask your attorney before making it public. Being cautious now can prevent a lot of problems later.
Disregarding Court Orders or Deadlines
When you’re facing criminal charges, you need to take every court order and deadline seriously. These are not suggestions. They’re part of a process that must be followed.
Missing a court date or not following a judge’s instructions can have serious consequences. For example, if you don’t show up when you’re supposed to, the court will issue a warrant for your arrest. If you’re out on bond, that bond could be revoked and you’ll end up back in jail while your case is still active.
There’s more to it than just the legal penalties. Disregarding the court or not meeting deadlines can affect how the judge and prosecution view you. It can make it harder to negotiate a good outcome and may lead to harsher penalties if you’re found guilty.
The best way to stay on track is to stay in close contact with your attorney, write down all important dates and make sure you know exactly what the court is expecting from you. Being consistent, respectful and prepared can make a big difference in how your case goes.
Speak With a Michigan Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
Facing criminal charges is a serious matter, and the steps you take early on can make a big difference in how your case turns out. Avoiding common mistakes is just one part of protecting your rights and your future. The next step is finding the right legal guidance to help you move forward with confidence.
If you are dealing with charges in Michigan, do not try to handle it alone. A skilled defense lawyer can help you understand your options, build a strong defense, and make sure your rights are respected every step of the way.
Contact the Law Office of James Fillmore today to schedule a consultation. It is a chance to get clear answers and trusted support when you need it most.
