Tulsa, Oklahoma Criminal Investigations
A criminal investigation is a significant stage of the criminal justice process. If a person is arrested at the scene of a crime, the majority of the investigation will occur after the arrest. On the other hand, if a crime is reported and there are no suspects on the scene, an investigation will ensue. A successful investigation will culminate in an arrest of the person or persons who are suspected of committing the crime.
Gathering Evidence
The purpose of a police investigation is to gather sufficient evidence to support the arrest of a suspect or suspects. While an investigation is ongoing, a person of interest might be brought to the police station for questioning. Typically, any statements that are made during the interrogation can be used against the person at trial. The person may or may not be placed under arrest during the interrogation. This is an important legal argument that can affect the admissibility at trial of any statements that are made during the interrogation.
Police may employ various interrogation tactics during an investigation in an attempt to implicate a suspect. Unfortunately, these tactics may lead to an arrest of an innocent person. Skilled police detectives are able to lay verbal traps that can cause an innocent person to unknowingly incriminate him or herself.
The Role of an Attorney During an Interrogation
During an interrogation, you have certain legal rights, including the right to have an attorney present to assist you. These rights can be easily trampled on if you are unaware of them or if you do not communicate your intent to exert these rights. However, if you have an experienced attorney by your side during an interrogation, you can be assured that your rights will be protected. Most importantly, an attorney will assist you in exerting your right to remain silent.
Getting Help
A police investigation carries the potential for serious legal implications, including an arrest, regardless of whether or not you actually committed a crime. It may not be in your best interest to talk to law enforcement and answer their questions. Having one of the qualified criminal defense attorneys from the Edge Law Firm by your side during a police investigation will ensure that your rights are protected. If you are the target of a criminal investigation, do not hesitate to call our office or fill out our online form for a no-cost, no-obligation review of your case.
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