Do You Need a Lawyer before You're Charged?
One the biggest, and most common, mistakes that a suspect makes in a criminal case is actually made before they officially become a defendant. People frequently wait to consult a defense attorney until after they have been arrested and charged with a crime. In some cases there truly was no forewarning, making it impossible to consult with an attorney before being charged. Often, however, a defendant is questioned or targeted long before the police actually make an arrest. If you have any reason to believe that you are the target of a criminal investigation, you absolutely need a lawyer before you are charged for several reasons. Do not wait, be proactive and hire a seasoned lawyer as soon as possible to review what is going on. Do not sit back and wait until it is too late; start gathering helpful evidence and preparing a defense theme and strategy.
Often, certain types of crimes, such as shoplifting or petty theft, DWI/DUI, driving infractions, possession of a small amount of a controlled substance or marijuana, or prostitution, are committed in the presence of a police officer or committed moments before the police arrive on the scene. Therefore, an arrest is made almost immediately after the alleged crime is committed. More serious crimes, however, such as murder, rape, robbery, burglary, or drug sale, possession or trafficking, are usually only solved after a lengthy investigation by law enforcement. This typically means that if you are a suspect you will have reason to know you are a suspect at some point along the way. You usually find out because the police contact you directly or contact family members, friends, or co-workers asking about questions about you and/or your activities and/or whereabouts. At this point, you should be very concerned and should immediately consult with an attorney.
People commonly make the mistake of thinking that they can wait and can "explain" things to the police. They think that they have nothing to hide so it can't hurt to talk to the police. Not only can it hurt to talk to the police without an attorney but is all too often does hurt to do so. Whether you are guilty of the crime or innocent doesn't matter at this point. Something you say could be misinterpreted, misconstrued, or misunderstood by the officer and could result in you becoming the prime suspect in the crime. If you let the police into your home, you could be giving consent to search all, or part, of your home. That search could also turn up incriminating evidence related or unrelated to the actual crime they are investigating.
Make no mistake about it, if the police want to "talk to you" it is more often than not because they consider you a suspect and plan to arrest you. At the very least, they believe you know something about the crime which could make you an accessory to the crime or material witness. You have an absolute right to consult with an attorney prior to speaking with the police. Exercising that right doesn't make you appear guilty, it makes you appear smart. Protect your rights and use them.
If you have reason to believe you are the target of a criminal investigation, contact an experienced New York criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
Please check our representative case page and testimonials & referrals page to see specific information regarding past cases and what our clients and other attorneys have to say about our legal services. Please feel free to contact The Law Offices of Adam Thompson, P.C. for more information about our experience in any sex crimes charges anytime at 855-497-2326.
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You will not find a lawyer more committed to his clients' causes than Adam Thompson. I have tried several cases alongside him and I can say from first hand experience that his trial skills are levels beyond even our most experienced piers. He has an ability to connect with jurors that is rarely seen in trial practice. Adam sets the bar very high. His passion for advocacy and absolute devotion to his clients is unparallelled. Adam personifies the ideal of the lawyer as fighter, and is an example to be followed. In complex or high stakes cases Adam is the go-to guy. A fearless, tireless, ethical and extremely competent trial attorney.
Aaron Baily Esq.
I have worked with Adam in various cases during his 26 years of practice. He's a very smart and hardworking lawyer who has great creativity and puts it to work for you. He is also very energetic, and relentless in representing his clients. When I need a great trial lawyer in New York, Adam's the one.
Anonymous
Adam Thompson is by far the most dedicated trial attorney I have worked alongside with. I have had the privilege of working with Adam on multiple personal injury trials. His attention to every detail and unmatched work ethic have always led to a great outcome. I strongly recommend Adam for anyone looking for a strong advocate who understands how important your case is to you.
Sean Gradowitz Esq.
I have worked with Adam numerous matters over the years, both in criminal defense and personal injury matters. Adam is a zealous, professional advocate for his clients.
Steven Rosenberg Esq.
Adam is one of the brightest, creative, and successful attorneys I've known. He takes command of the courtroom, is ballsy, and goes after the win like no other! If you're looking for an enthusiastic, dedicated and competent attorney who will FIGHT for you, choose Adam.
Susan Margiloff Esq.
I endorse Mr. Thompson. I've known him for more than 25 years. He is a thorough, enthusiastic attorney, and a creative, out of the box thinker. He has boundless energy and is extremely dedicated.
Amelia McGovern Esq.
An extremely talented and well respected attorney in the legal community, I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone looking for a lawyer who knows the law and truly cares about protecting the rights of his clients and getting them the most favorable result possible.
John O'Brien Esq.
I endorse this lawyer. Adam is a very intelligent and creative attorney, who puts his extensive experience and abundant energy at work for the benefit of his clients. He is the kind of litigator that you want on your side when you need to fight a difficult fight.
Mario Pabon Esq.
Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community.
Christian Lassen Esq.
Great lawyer. His opinions and advice make obvious his legal expertise and handle on the law. I recommend him without reservation.
David Fraser Esq.
Adam Thompson is one of the most gifted and knowledgeable trial lawyers I have ever seen. We have worked on many cases together and his input and insight is invaluable.
Mike Rubenstein Esq.
I have used Adam Thompson for all types of personal injury and criminal cases for my firm for over 10 years. He is simply the best. I call him "The Master" I would recommend his service to anyone!
Peter Hurwitz Esq.
Adam Thompson has tried several cases for my firm. We always win, and the clients love him! He is 'The Man'!
Mathew Kogler Esq.
I have used Mr. Thompson's services as trial counsel on numerous cases. I have found him to be professional and always prepared. He always obtains excellent results. He is an aggressive lawyer who gets things done. My clients have always thanked me for using his services.
Leon Greenberg Esq.
Adam had be retained by a close friend many years ago and I had always heard him described as a "powerhouse"! Recently, I had an unexpected situation and thankfully we still 25 yrs later had Adams number. It was a holiday weekend and he was out of state but he quickly took it over and not only advised me but went beyond by doing everything possible to minimize the situation immediately. He kept me informed, explaining next steps and his expectation. He handled it so professionally and I honestly don't think the outcome would have been what it was without him. I am very grateful and highly recommend him.
G.C. New Jersey
When I met Adam Thompson, I knew right away that he was a class act! He is a brilliant attorney, fights for his clients and what he believes in with 110% passion and effort! His knowledge as it pertains to the law (criminal, civil) is simply unmatched! Having had the pleasure of working with Adam Thompson as an on air news contributor, I am convinced he's simply in a class by himself! I worked with him when I was a journalist at CNN and now have had the pleasure of having him as a guest in my own broadcast studio (www.floridasunstudios.com) as a frequent guest commentator on HLN's Jane Velez Mitchell's Show, Issues. Aside from being a brilliant attorney, this guy has moxie and class! It's no wonder that he is also a syndicated radio talk show host. If I were a network news executive, Adam Thompson would definitely be on my "short list" of attorneys to hire as a legal analyst!
Scott
Adam Thompson has been my attorney since 2006. He is on top of his game! Always honest & up front. Always gets back to me if I have questions & reliable. 100 % energy!!! He is a winner! He prepares you at all time & keeps you well informed and updated. I trust him! If you need someone on your side chose Adam Thompson. You will be glad you did!!!!
Nike
If you are looking for a skilled, knowledgeable, caring yet aggressive defense in legal matters then Adam Thompson is your answer. I have known Mr. Thompson for seven years needing his assistance on two different occasions for a family member and then myself. My experiences with Mr. Thompson have been completely positive. Adam's handling is heartfelt (he treats you like family) and your in good hands legally since he is very proactive and hardworking on your case. I feel very confident and reassured having him as my attorney. He embodies all the good qualities that you would look for in an attorney but more importantly in a human being.
Karen
Adam saved my life!! I was in danger of being falsely convicted because of poor representation from my first attorney. Adam stepped in and got down to business. He is super smart and understands the most important aspects of working a case. More importantly, Adam took the time to make me feel comfortable with the process and understand me. I couldn't imagine any other attorney closing my case with such success!!
Adreama
This guy is the "best of the best"! Generally I do not like lawyers so for me to say something is quite amazing. Adam is an honest lawyer who is out for the clients best interest regardless if it puts money in his pocket or not. Its hard to find a decent guy who knows what he is talking about. So if Adam will work with you I'd say run don't walk as he has the knowledge and character to help you.
Adam Urban
Adam Thompson is one of the greatest lawyers in the legal profession. His knowledge of the legal system is impeccable. He got me out of some stuff and for that i am forever in his dept. He is know joke and he really wins every case.
Marcus
Adam put his heart into my case as if he were the client. He speaks up and stands up for his clients. A real old school mouthpiece. A true lawyer.
Tom
Mr. Thompson walked me through my case (personal injury) and arranged for doctor visit for evaluation of injury and subsequent therapy sessions. He kept me informed of my status and explained the entire process so that there would be no surprises. I was prepared for depositions and eventually the case was settled and all issues were resolved favorably.
David
Adam has helped me fight the police and the City for the past ten years over my son getting killed by a NYC cop. He fully investigated my case and always kept me thinking positively. He was able to settle my case with the City I call him my Guardian Angel. God bless him.
Yvonne V.
Mr. Thompson represented me in a criminal case where I was misidentified and charged with serious crimes I did not commit. He fully investigated my case and never gave up. We went to trial and he got me acquitted of all charges. I am now married and have gotten on with my life, I have Mr. Thompson to thank for that.
Keith P.
Mr. Thompson represented me in an automobile case. My family and I cannot thank him enough for all his effort and advice. We were ready to settle the case to just get it over with and he urged us to wait it out and have patience. It turned out I had much more serious neck and back injuries than had first been discovered requiring major surgery. He later settled our case for almost one million dollars. He never stopped fighting for us. He has helped us so much.
Alex R.
Mr. Thompson represented me in a automobile accident case. Other lawyers did not want this case. Mr. Thompson accepted my case and fought for may years to protect my rights. The insurance company refused to settle and offer any money for my injuries. Mr. Thompson never gave up and took my case to trial. He was able to get a jury verdict for $125,000.00 when everyone else said I would get nothing. I don't know how I would ever thank him.
Ronald J.
He worked a true miracle representing me. God bless him. I recommend everyone to use him. He really cares. He took my case to trial against the city and was just excellent. The jury and judge loved him. He was like watching a movie. He should be on TV.He settled my case before verdict for over $550,000.00. I still cannot believe it.
Alicia H.
Mr. Thompson is the best. We consider him family. He has handled several cases for my family and our friends over the years and always gets great results. More than that, he treats you with respect and really cares. We would refer anyone who needs a lawyer to him.
Jose M.
I cannot thank Mr. Thompson enough for what he did for me and my family. I was falsely accused of a crime and he stood in my corner and fought for me day and night. We went to trial and he won my case.
Melvin B.
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