When you’re facing criminal charges, it can be hard to know who to trust.
Having trust issues around a case can lead someone to withhold information from their attorney, but is this a good idea? Do you tell your attorney everything — even things that cast you in a negative light — or not?
Here are some things to remember:
1. Attorney-client privilege is your right.
Whatever you tell your attorney in private about your past actions will remain private. Your attorney cannot tell the prosecutor what you’ve said.
2. Your attorney owes you a zealous defense.
Even if you are guilty of the charges against you, your attorney will continue to advocate for you to the full extent of their abilities. That’s their job. It’s not their job to judge you.
3. Lack of information can compromise a defense
It is an attorney’s responsibility to interpret the law and determine the best suitable defense. Surprises are a huge detriment to that cause. It is unfair to allow the person that is defending you in court to be blindsided by facts that were not disclosed.
Being guilty doesn’t guarantee a guilty verdict. The state must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This is a very high standard that they must achieve, and there may be many defenses available to you that you don’t even recognize.