When Will I Have an Opportunity to Speak if I Am Charged With a Federal Crime?

When you are embroiled in a federal criminal case and are forced to listen to the opposition tell their side of the story, you are likely to feel frustrated by what they have to say. Defendants frequently feel as though the federal prosecutor is taking details out of context and weaving things together to craft a tale that just isn’t true. You will want to know when you will get an opportunity to tell your side of the story and convince the judge that the prosecutor’s account of what happened is wrong. Sadly, a federal criminal case is complex and it is not a natural environment that nurtures open communication between the parties involved. You will require the help of an experienced federal lawyer to make a decision as to when the best time is for you to speak. You would like to make sure the truth is heard, but not at the peril of jail time or other penalties. A good attorney will walk you through every step of your federal matter, and make certain that you do get a chance to talk.

Selecting an Attorney to Handle Your Federal Criminal Case

If you’re looking at federal criminal charges, the first person you should tell your side of the story to is a lawyer. It’s critical to find the right man or woman for the task as quickly as possible. The more time your lawyer has with you, the better he or she can construct your defense. When you’re vetting attorneys, search for a professional who has extensive experience dealing with cases similar to your own. While every case is unique, bridging in an attorney that is familiar with the legislation connected to your case is extremely beneficial. You should ask them about their track record and allow their proven results with past clients testify to their experience and skill level. When you find someone that is well informed and has been successful in similar cases, set up a time to meet with him or her. Discussing the details of your case face-to-face will help you get a feel for whether you’ll be comfortable working together throughout the duration of your case. Once you believe you’ve found the right lawyer, you can get to work and defend your freedom.

Defeating Federal Criminal Charges

To be successful in your federal criminal matter, you’ll need to clearly communicate your side of the account and persuade the judge or jury that you’re innocent. Before that, the first step is explaining things to your lawyer. You need to tell your lawyer every detail of your case so that he or she can develop the most effective strategy for your defense. Upon hearing your side of the story, your attorney will assist you in deciding if you should talk or if you should plead the fifth, which gives you the constitutional right to remain silent. Whether you tell your story in court or just with your lawyer, what you have to say is important.

DEFENSE TEAM SPOTLIGHT

Todd Spodek

Lead Attorney & Founder

Featured on Netflix's "Inventing Anna," Todd Spodek brings decades of high-stakes criminal defense experience. His aggressive approach has secured dismissals and acquittals in cases others deemed unwinnable.

NY Bar Admitted Multi-State Licensed Federal Courts

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Legal Scenario: What Would You Do?

Scenario

You've been indicted on federal fraud charges and just sat through the prosecution's opening statement, which painted you as a calculated criminal mastermind. You feel the prosecutor twisted innocent emails and conversations into something sinister, and you're desperate to tell the jury what actually happened.

When will I finally get the chance to tell my side of the story and correct the misleading narrative the prosecution is presenting?

Attorney's Answer

Under the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure, your defense team will have several critical opportunities to present your perspective. Your attorney will deliver an opening statement immediately after the prosecution's, outlining your version of events for the jury. During the defense's case-in-chief, you have the right under the Fifth and Sixth Amendments to testify on your own behalf, though your attorney may advise against it depending on the circumstances. Additionally, your lawyer will cross-examine every prosecution witness and deliver a closing argument that directly challenges the government's narrative before the jury deliberates.

This is general information only. Contact us for advice specific to your situation.

The right attorney will carefully review every detail of your unique case and hear your side of the story as he or she develops a comprehensive approach to your defense.