5 Things You Should Tell Your Detroit Criminal Attorney

If you’ve been charged with a crime or you think the police may be investigating you, reach out to a Detroit criminal attorney right away. You will need someone on your side to protect your rights. When you speak with a lawyer, make sure you tell them everything about the situation so they can develop a strong defense against pending charges.

A skilled criminal defense lawyer like Attorney Maurice Davis will understand that your unique situation cannot be handled just like any other case. An experienced defense attorney will advise you to share the details of your case, even if that means discussing your guilt or innocence.

Call Davis Law Group today at (313) 818-3238 or use our online contact form to reach out.

What Should I Tell My Criminal Defense Attorney?

When you’ve been charged with a crime, you need to be careful with any information connected to your case. You should be cautious with whoever you are talking to about your case. Any communications you have, whether you’re in jail or out on bond, could be included as evidence for the prosecution.

However, you should trust your criminal defense attorney when you are talking about your case. Your discussions will be covered under attorney-client privilege, which means any discussions, e-mails, or phone calls are protected. There are exceptions, but you can safely talk with your attorney as you fight against your charges.

1. You Should Explain What Really Happened

You may be reluctant to give your attorney all of the details; however, your attorney is not here to judge you. Their job is to build a strong defense no matter the facts of the case. By telling them everything, you’re making sure they’re not surprised by evidence from the prosecution.

Even if you think you broke the law, you have rights that your attorney will protect. Maurice Davis will make sure you’re not charged with an inappropriate crime and the prosecution’s proposed penalties do not exceed what is necessary. He will ensure you are treated fairly in Detroit’s criminal justice system.

2. Tell Your Lawyer Where You Were During The Alleged Crime

You may think that your whereabouts during the criminal activity will paint you as guilty. However, your attorney needs to know where you really were. Even if you weren’t engaging in criminal activity, if you were nearby, your lawyer needs to know.

The prosecution may be making accusations against everyone who was remotely associated with a crime or location. We can often use the real story to fight back. We may tell the prosecution what you were really doing at the scene of the crime and let them know you weren’t involved.

3. Explain Who Was Actually Involved in the Crime

You may want to protect your friends and family, but your attorney needs to know who was actually involved in the crime. If there is a chance that this information can help with your defense, your attorney can use it to cast doubt on the prosecution’s arguments.

4. Talk to Your Attorney About Potential Evidence

After you’ve described the circumstances of the crime you’re facing, you need to make sure your attorney knows about anything that could either clear your name or prove your guilt. You aren’t asking your lawyer to go destroy evidence or interfere with an investigation — you’re being proactive and getting them time to prepare to fight anything the prosecution may use against your freedom. Your lawyer may need to know about potential witnesses or even anything that can reinforce an alibi.

5. Talk About Any Interactions With Law Enforcement Since Your Arrest

You need to discuss any kind of discussions or interactions you’ve had with police officers or representatives from the prosecutor’s office. Even if you feel you were being polite and having a calm conversation with a friendly police officer, there could be a chance they use your conversation against you. Your defense lawyer needs to know what you talked about and who you spoke with. There could be a potential defense there, especially if the officer didn’t disclose it was an official interview. Possible evidence gathered unlawfully should be suppressed. Your attorney can’t do that if they don’t know about it.

What Should I Do After I Get Arrested?

If you’ve been charged with a crime, you might feel overwhelmed by the criminal process in Michigan. After an arrest, your first step should be to remain calm and protect your rights. Don’t try to talk your way out of the situation or explain anything to the police. Anything you say can be used against you—even if you think you’re helping your case.

Instead, ask to speak with an attorney immediately. The police are required to stop questioning you once you invoke your right to a lawyer. This is your best protection during an investigation or formal questioning.

Once you have an attorney, like Attorney Maurice Davis, on your side, they can step in to help you avoid self-incrimination, ensure law enforcement followed proper procedure, and begin building a defense strategy right away. Whether you’re dealing with misdemeanor or felony charges, early legal intervention can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Do not wait to see how things play out. The sooner you involve a criminal defense lawyer, the better your chances of reducing or dismissing the charges you’re facing.

FAQs About Defending Against Criminal Charges in MI

Can I be arrested without being charged right away in Michigan?

Yes. In Michigan, you can be arrested based on probable cause, even if formal charges haven’t been filed yet. However, prosecutors must decide whether to charge you within a certain timeframe—typically 48 to 72 hours. If you’re arrested and held without charges beyond that window, your attorney may be able to push for your release.

What happens at my first court appearance after an arrest?

Your first court appearance is called an arraignment. At this hearing, a judge will read the charges against you, inform you of your rights, and ask for your plea (usually not guilty at this stage). Bail may also be set. Having a lawyer present is crucial to protect your rights and argue for the lowest possible bond.

Should I talk to the police if I know I didn’t do anything wrong?

No. Even if you believe you’re innocent, talking to the police without an attorney can hurt your case. Law enforcement may try to twist your words or use parts of your statement out of context. It’s always safer to let your attorney handle communication on your behalf.

Can my case be dismissed if the police didn’t read me my rights?

Not necessarily. If the police failed to read your Miranda rights, your case won’t automatically be dismissed—but certain statements you made during questioning might be thrown out. An experienced criminal defense attorney can review whether any of your rights were violated and seek to suppress that evidence.

What if I’ve already talked to the police—can a lawyer still help me?

Yes. Even if you’ve spoken to the police or given a statement, it’s not too late to get legal help. A skilled defense lawyer can assess how damaging the statement is, challenge how it was obtained, and still work to minimize or dismiss the charges. The sooner you contact an attorney, the better your defense can be.

Contact Davis Law Group For Criminal Defense in Detroit

If you are being investigated or have already been charged, you need to speak with an attorney as soon as possible. Do not speak with the police before getting legal advice. Call attorney Maurice Davis for a confidential consultation to find out what your next steps should be: (313) 818-3238 or use our online contact form.