Know Your Next Steps
Know your next steps after a felony arrest. Being arrested for a felony in St. Louis or anywhere else in Missouri is a serious and life-altering event. The decisions you make and steps you take immediately after your arrest can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Your first step should be speaking with an expert felony defense lawyer at Combs Waterkotte.
Call (314) 900-HELP right away or contact us online for a free, no-obligation case review where you can discuss the specifics of your case with one of our skilled criminal defense attorneys. We have more than 30 years of experience successfully defending cases just like yours. Knowing your next steps is critical to protecting your rights, minimizing damage to your future, and building a solid defense.
Know Your Next Steps After a Felony Arrest
Booking
After your arrest, law enforcement will take you to the police station for booking where you’ll be fingerprinted and photographed. During this time, it’s essential to remember that anything you say can be used against you in court. It’s important to exercise your right to remain silent and not provide any statements at any point without an attorney present. Just because an officer is not within earshot doesn’t mean you aren’t heard. Plus, even casual comments or explanations can be misinterpreted, taken out of context, or used to build a case against you. Request a lawyer immediately.
The Combs Waterkotte legal team is available 24/7. One of our experienced felony defense attorneys can help you navigate the legal system, protect your rights, and prevent mistakes that could weaken your defense.
Secure Bail or Bond
Due to the seriousness of some felonies, bail or bond may be set before you can be released from custody. Bail is the money paid as a guarantee that you will attend your arraignment and/or preliminary hearing. This amount is set based on the seriousness of the offense, any prior criminal history, and other factors. If you are unable to post bail immediately, a bail bondsman might be able to help for a fee. However, consult with your attorney first to determine whether fighting for a bail reduction or alternative release option might be a better option.
Arraignment and Preliminary Hearing
During an arraignment, the charges against you are formally read, and you enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. During a preliminary hearing, the prosecutor will present evidence to a judge to determine if there is probable cause to believe you committed the felony crime. Here, your felony defense lawyer can present evidence and cross-examine witnesses. If probable cause is established, your case will proceed to trial. If you waive this hearing, the case will go directly to trial.
Attend All Court Dates
Attending all scheduled court appearances is not only a legal requirement but also a critical part of demonstrating your commitment to resolving your case responsibly. Missing a court date can lead to additional charges, such as failure to appear, and may result in a warrant for your arrest, as well as weaken your overall case. If you’re out on bail, the court may rescind that and require you to stay in jail until your case is resolved. Your talented felony defense attorney will help you understand what to expect and how to conduct yourself during the proceedings.
Avoid Discussing Your Felony Case
Do not discuss the details of your case with anyone other than your attorney. This includes any online discussions, especially social media. Conversations with friends and even family – even seemingly innocent comments – can be taken out of context and used against you in court. Your attorney-client privilege protects conversations with your lawyer, but anything said outside of that relationship can be admissible as evidence.
Plan for the Long-Term Impact
While your lawyer can help deal with the immediacy of a felony arrest, a conviction is another thing all together. A felony conviction can have long-lasting, if not permanent, consequences beyond legal penalties. It may affect your ability to find employment, obtain housing, or maintain professional licenses. However, if you are convicted, your attorney can help explore options for appealing, expunging the record, or minimizing the long-term effects.
Call Combs Waterkotte Right Away So You Know Your Next Steps After Being Arrested for a Felony
Being charged with a felony is a serious matter, but by taking the right steps early, you can protect your rights and work toward a favorable outcome. Stay calm, know your rights, and lean on the expertise of a qualified felony defense attorney from Combs Waterkotte to guide you through the legal process. Your future depends on making informed decisions and taking a proactive approach to your defense.
Call (314) 900-HELP or contact us today to discuss your case during a free and confidential consultation.
