Should you be honest with your defense attorney?

 Posted on November 14, 2018 in Criminal Defense

If you are charged with a crime in Illinois, the best thing you can do for yourself is defend your rights. You don't want to end up with a bias against you in court, and you shouldn't have to worry about unfair treatment.

Whenever you're charged with a crime, you have a right to speak with your attorney. Your attorney's job is to protect and educate you. Your attorney can help guide you through the steps of a criminal case and will do all they can to make sure you don't face unfair charges or penalties.

If you are charged with a serious offense, such as assault and battery, then you need to shore up your defenses quickly. Here's a bit on what you can do to build a strong defense.

1. Be honest with your attorney

To start with, be honest with your attorney. Don't hide anything about your case, because it's likely that those facts will come out one way or another. Your attorney won't be surprised by anything you tell them, so be honest.

2. Explain the circumstances carefully, and stick to the same story

Once you explain what happened, your attorney will begin to draft a defense. At this point, unless there is an obvious missing fact in the case, you need to stick to the same story and know the circumstances that led to the assault or battery charges thoroughly. If you can show that you were defending yourself or that there is logic in the situation, then that will help you.

It's not always easy to create a defense, but with honesty at the core of your attorney-client relationship, you have a better chance at success.