Know Your Rights
The United States was founded on the principle that every person is endowed with certain inalienable rights. Although those rights have been eroded over the years by aggressive federal and state governments, those rights remain remarkably intact. If you have been arrested or face the prospect of criminal charges, those rights protect you from overreaching by government officials, they are your shield. You should cherish those rights and take full advantage of the protections they provide.
I am Steven J. Sherlag, a criminal defense attorney who vigorously defends people charged with felony and misdemeanor crimes in Oregon and Federal Courts. I work tenaciously to protect the rights of my clients at all times.
Your Rights Under The Law
Some of the rights you have under the U.S. and Oregon constitutions include the following:
- In the eyes of the law, you are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
- You have the right to legal counsel when being questioned by the police.
- The Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution guarantees your right to be free from unreasonable searches. If the police obtain evidence in violation of this right, that evidence can be suppressed in court.
- After you have been arrested, the police must inform you of your Miranda rights if they are going to question you. If the police fail to give you a Miranda warning, it could result in suppression of evidence, primarily anything that you say that tends to incriminate you in any fashion.
- Under the Fifth Amendment, you have the right to refuse to incriminate yourself. This is a self-exercising right, which means you invoke it by refusing to answer questions.
- You have the right to due process, fair hearings and a fair trial by an impartial jury.
Your Right To Legal Counsel
Among the most important of your rights is the right to legal counsel. This is especially true if you are under investigation because getting legal representation early may make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. As your lawyer, I can review your situation, explain the legal process and your options, and begin preparing your defense. Depending on circumstances, I may even be able to head off an indictment altogether or shape the charges that are brought, if they cannot be avoided altogether. This is incredibly important as the initial charges often determine what happens in your case, whether you get out of jail before trial, and the types of sentences a judge might impose if you are convicted.
Free Consultation With A Portland Criminal Defense Lawyer
To discuss a criminal case with an experienced and committed defense advocate, contact Steven J. Sherlag, P.C.
Hablamos español. Мы Говорим по-Русски. Interpreters are also available as needed.