If you or a loved one has been accused of committing a crime, you may feel hopeless. However, you can rely on the United States Constitution for protection. Understanding your civil rights is important to ensure they are not violated. If you are facing criminal charges in Texas, please continue reading to learn the rights you are afforded as a criminal defendant and why connecting with a trusted Dallas County Criminal Lawyer is in your best interest.
Do I Have Rights as a Criminal Defendant?
It’s important to understand that every citizen and legal resident in the United States is afforded certain rights and protections guaranteed under the Constitution. For instance, the Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Consitution provides you with the right to remain silent so as not to incriminate yourself. Essentially, this means that if you are under arrest, you don’t have to speak to the police. This protects you from saying anything that can be held against you in court.
Another important set of rights comes from the Sixth Amendment, which guarantees the right to representation, the right to a speedy trial, the right to a public trial, the right to an impartial jury, the right to know what evidence is being raised against you, and the right to confront a witness.
Furthermore, under the Eighth Amendment, you have the right to a reasonable bail and the right against cruel and unusual punishment as a criminal defendant.
What Should I Do if My Rights Are Violated?
If you believe that your rights as a criminal defendant have been violated, it’s imperative to connect with a seasoned criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. They will help you take the necessary steps to remedy the situation.
For instance, if the evidence against you was derived from an unreasonable search and seizure, your lawyer can file a motion to suppress evidence. This motion will be granted if the judge determines the evidence was not legally obtained and therefore is not admissible in court. This can significantly benefit you as it can weaken the prosecution’s case against you. They may lack enough evidence to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, potentially leading to reduced or dismissed charges.
If you are facing criminal charges in Texas, don’t jeopardize your rights and freedom. As mentioned above, under the Sixth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution you have the right to legal representation. An experienced Dallas County criminal lawyer can help formulate a robust defense strategy, provide legal guidance, and protect your rights. At Spangler Law, we are prepared to help you fight for the best possible outcome. Connect with our firm today to learn how we can help you attain the justice you deserve.
