Engaging in a conversation with a lawyer following a criminal accusation can be anxiety-inducing for anyone.
However, acknowledging your actions is crucial. The question arises: should you disclose this information to your attorney? Some lawyers inquire about it, while others do not, and some prefer not to be informed.
Many individuals fear that admitting their guilt might lead their attorney to abandon their case or provide inadequate defense.
Being truthful with your criminal defense attorney is essential.
Without accurate information, constructing a strong defense becomes increasingly challenging.
Admitting your actions should not result in differential treatment from your attorney.
Ethical obligations mandate defense attorneys to vigorously advocate for all clients, irrespective of their perceived guilt.
Attorney-Client Privilege
Attorneys have a confidential relationship with clients, allowing open communication.
This privilege applies to all legal areas, not just criminal defense. If unsure, clarify what’s covered by this privilege before confessing.
Your Orlando criminal defense attorney will ask questions to plan your defense.
Information shared is confidential unless needed for negotiations or court, ensuring a fair hearing and protecting your rights.
Perjury
If you admit guilt later, your attorney faces a dilemma.
Attorney-client privilege protects your conversations, but if you change your story and admit guilt, your attorney can’t let you testify falsely.
Perjury carries severe penalties.
If your confession alters the defense, your attorney can’t defend you with false information.
Instead, the focus shifts to challenging the prosecution’s proof, not asserting your innocence, letting the judge or jury decide your guilt.
So, Should You Tell?
A criminal defense attorney’s main goal is to challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
They question whether there’s solid proof of your guilt or if the case relies on weak or circumstantial evidence.
Legally, you’re not guilty until proven so in court.
The defense attorney ensures there isn’t enough evidence to convict you and fights for a fair trial.