Sometimes even those with the best of intentions can find ourselves needing criminal defense in North Dakota, and if you do it's important to remember a few tips to helping you through your case. First of all, remember that no matter how much you may want to conceal the truth of what happened, it is imperative that the one person you are honest with about the circumstances surrounded your alleged criminal act. If you are innocent, tell them, but if you are guilty, by all means tell them that too because knowing all of the circumstances will help them defend you better. What you say to your attorney remains shielded by attorney client privilege and admitting your guilt or innocence to your attorney cannot be used against you later.
How long do Criminal Trials Take?
If you are involved in a criminal defense in North Dakota trial you should know that the outcome of the trial from the date you are first charged until the jury returns with its verdict could potentially be months, even years in some cases. It is important that you remain patient and understanding about the length that can be involved in getting a case into court. Many times people become frustrated and agitated after court dates are rescheduled, hearings are delayed, and time continues to get by them. However, you should never take this out on your attorney. They cannot control what happens sometimes, especially when you have to consider that that judge and District Attorney also share in some of the responsibility for delaying things.
What is Double Jeopardy?
In you are found not guilty during a criminal defense in North Dakota case then you are protected by the law of double jeopardy, which means that even if you confess guilt later, you cannot be retried for the same crime. However, there are different charges that can apply to the same crime, and sometimes the federal government can even press criminal charges on you for something that may fall under their jurisdiction that was committed during the original criminal act. So, even though you may have heard that you can be found not guilty and then go proclaiming your guilt on the court house steps and remain free and clear of legal problems, it is not a wise move.
