An individual charged with a crime, or who is the “target” of a criminal investigation,
is in danger of having his or her liberty restricted. In light of this,
the individual should hire a criminal defense attorney, for
numerous reasons, including:

1. To determine whether the individual has, in fact,
committed any criminal offense. The law is complex.
An individual might have made a mistake (and feel
guilty about it), but the behavior might not meet the
technical definition of any crime.

2. To insulate the individual from the investigatory
process. Any such person has a right not to be
questioned by the authorities and should exercise
that right. All communication should proceed through
an attorney’s office.

3. To help the individual identify any potential defenses.

Every criminal charge or investigation is a serious matter. The person charged, or who is the “target” of a criminal investigation, should employ the services of a qualified attorney

© 2002 Hubert G. Duvall, Jr, Attorney at Law