Being arrested or charged with a crime in Missouri can be an overwhelming experience. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor, felony, DWI, drug charge, or another criminal allegation, the decisions you make after an arrest could affect your future.
If you or someone you love is facing criminal charges in Missouri, understanding your rights and knowing what steps to take can make a significant difference.
At Martin, Birdsong & Andreasen Attorneys at Law, also known as The Lake Lawyers, our criminal defense attorneys understand how stressful the legal process can be. We provide criminal defense representation in the Lake of the Ozarks and surrounding Mid-Missouri communities.
Here are seven important steps to take after an arrest in Missouri and why consulting an experienced Missouri criminal defense attorney can be important.
1. Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
One of the most important things to remember after being arrested in Missouri is that you have constitutional rights.
Many people believe that explaining their side of the story to law enforcement will help clear up a misunderstanding. However, statements made during questioning may later be used as evidence in a criminal case.
If law enforcement questions you about suspected criminal activity, you can clearly state that you wish to remain silent and want to speak with an attorney.
Stay calm, follow lawful instructions, and avoid arguing or physically resisting officers.
You may still have legal obligations to provide certain information in specific circumstances, including during traffic stops.
Protecting your rights begins with understanding when to speak and when to seek legal advice.
2. Contact an Experienced Missouri Criminal Defense Attorney
If you’ve been arrested or charged with a crime, contacting a criminal defense lawyer as early as possible can help you understand your options.
A Missouri criminal defense attorney can review your situation, explain the allegations, and help you navigate the legal process.
An attorney may assist with:
- Understanding felony and misdemeanor charges
- Reviewing police reports and evidence
- Identifying possible legal defenses
- Explaining potential penalties
- Preparing for court appearances
- Evaluating plea offers and other possible resolutions
- Protecting your constitutional rights
Every criminal case is different. Having an attorney evaluate the specific facts of your situation can help you make more informed decisions.
3. Avoid Discussing Your Criminal Case on Social Media
Social media posts, text messages, photographs, and online conversations can sometimes become evidence in criminal proceedings.
Even comments that seem harmless may be interpreted differently during an investigation.
If you’re facing criminal charges in Missouri, avoid discussing the facts of your case on Facebook, Instagram, or other public platforms.
Be cautious about discussing case details with people other than your attorney.
Important: Do not delete, alter, or destroy potentially relevant posts, messages, or other evidence. Speak with your attorney about properly preserving that information.
4. Understand the Criminal Charges You’re Facing
Missouri criminal law covers many different offenses, and the potential consequences depend on the specific charge and circumstances.
Common criminal allegations include:
DWI and Alcohol-Related Offenses
Driving while intoxicated (DWI) allegations can involve criminal proceedings and separate driver’s license consequences.
Drug Charges
Drug-related allegations may involve possession or other controlled-substance offenses. The potential penalties depend on the substance, offense, and applicable Missouri law.
Assault and Violent Crime Charges
These cases may involve allegations of physical contact, injury, threats, or other conduct prohibited by law.
Theft and Property Crimes
Charges may involve alleged theft, property damage, burglary, or related offenses.
Felony and Misdemeanor Charges
Missouri law distinguishes among different classifications of criminal offenses, each with its own potential penalties.
An experienced criminal defense lawyer can help explain what the specific allegations mean and which defense strategies may be available.
5. Take Every Court Date Seriously
Missing a required criminal court appearance can create additional legal problems.
Depending on the circumstances, failing to appear may result in a warrant or other consequences.
If you’ve been arrested in Missouri, keep copies of important paperwork, including:
- Court notices and summonses
- Bond and release documents
- Citations
- Charging documents
- Any written instructions from the court
Make sure you understand upcoming deadlines and any conditions attached to your release.
Your attorney can explain the court process and whether you must personally attend each scheduled proceeding.
6. Preserve Evidence That Could Help Your Defense
Evidence can play a critical role in a Missouri criminal defense case.
Depending on the allegations, potentially relevant evidence might include:
- Security camera recordings
- Text messages and phone records
- Photographs or video footage
- Witness contact information
- Receipts or transaction records
- GPS information and other digital records
Preserve potentially relevant information without changing it.
Avoid contacting witnesses for the purpose of influencing their accounts or attempting to interfere with an investigation.
A criminal defense attorney can help determine which evidence may be important and how it should be obtained and evaluated.
7. Remember That an Arrest Is Not a Conviction
Being arrested or accused of a crime does not automatically mean you will be convicted.
In a criminal prosecution, the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Depending on the circumstances, a criminal defense attorney may evaluate:
- Whether a search or seizure was lawful
- Whether law enforcement respected constitutional protections
- Whether the evidence supports the allegations
- Whether witness statements are reliable
- Whether procedural errors occurred
- Whether defenses or alternative resolutions are available
Possible outcomes vary based on the facts and applicable law. No attorney can guarantee a particular result.
The most important thing is not to assume that your case is hopeless simply because you’ve been charged with a crime.
Why Choose a Local Criminal Defense Attorney in the Lake of the Ozarks?
Facing criminal charges can affect your freedom, employment, finances, and reputation.
Working with an attorney familiar with Missouri law and the regional court system can help you understand the procedures and decisions involved in your case.
Martin, Birdsong & Andreasen Attorneys at Law provides criminal defense representation throughout its designated Mid-Missouri service area, including:
- Camden County, Missouri
- Miller County, Missouri
- Morgan County, Missouri
- Laclede County, Missouri
- Cole County, Missouri
- Moniteau County, Missouri
If you’re looking for a criminal defense attorney in Osage Beach, MO, or a criminal defense lawyer in Camden County, Missouri, choosing a law firm familiar with the local court system can help you understand the legal process. Martin, Birdsong & Andreasen Attorneys at Law provides criminal defense representation throughout the Lake of the Ozarks region and surrounding communities within its service area.
Whether you’re searching for a criminal defense attorney in Osage Beach, MO, a criminal lawyer near Lake of the Ozarks, or legal representation for criminal charges in one of these surrounding counties, understanding your options is an important first step.
For additional information about Missouri’s court system and court procedures, visit the official Missouri Courts website.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Charges in Missouri
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time criminal offense in Missouri?
Even a first-time offense may have serious consequences. Consulting a Missouri criminal defense lawyer can help you understand the potential penalties and whether defenses or alternative resolutions may be available.
What happens after someone is arrested in Missouri?
The process depends on the alleged offense and circumstances. It may involve booking, release conditions, formal charges, court appearances, and additional proceedings. A criminal defense attorney can explain what to expect in your specific case.
Can criminal charges be dismissed in Missouri?
Some criminal charges may be dismissed depending on the evidence, applicable law, and circumstances. However, dismissal is never guaranteed, and each case requires an individual evaluation.
Should I speak to police without an attorney?
You generally have the right to remain silent when questioned about suspected criminal activity, subject to certain legal requirements. If you are under investigation, consulting an attorney before answering substantive questions may help protect your interests.
How soon should I hire a Missouri criminal defense attorney?
Seeking legal advice promptly after an arrest, charge, or notification of a criminal investigation can help you understand your rights and prepare for upcoming legal proceedings.
Facing Criminal Charges in Missouri? Contact The Lake Lawyers
If you or someone you love has been arrested or charged with a crime, understanding your rights and legal options is important.
At Martin, Birdsong & Andreasen Attorneys at Law, our legal team provides criminal defense representation to individuals facing criminal allegations in the Lake of the Ozarks and surrounding Mid-Missouri communities.
Whether you’re dealing with a DWI, drug charge, felony, misdemeanor, or another criminal matter, our team can discuss your situation and explain how we may be able to assist.
Contact The Lake Lawyers at 573-348-4500 for a free phone consultation.
Learn more about our Missouri criminal defense services.
Martin, Birdsong & Andreasen Attorneys at Law
5780 Osage Beach Parkway, Suite 225B
Osage Beach, MO 65065
Website: www.thelakelawyers.com
Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this article or contacting the firm does not automatically establish an attorney-client relationship. Every criminal case is unique, and results depend on the individual facts and applicable law.