Getting arrested is frightening. Whether it’s your first offense or you’ve been through the system before, facing criminal charges can leave you feeling anxious, confused, and unsure of what to do next. And while every case is different, there are a few common missteps that can make a difficult situation even worse. If you’ve been charged with a crime, here are five mistakes you’ll want to avoid.
1. Talking to the Police Without a Lawyer
One of the most common and damaging mistakes people make is talking to law enforcement without legal representation. You might think cooperating will help your case, or that you can explain your way out of it. But the truth is, anything you say can and will be used against you, and police are trained to get statements that help their case, not yours.
Even if you’re innocent, statements can be twisted, taken out of context, or misunderstood. The best move? Politely but firmly say, “I want a lawyer,” and stay silent until your attorney is present.
2. Posting on Social Media
When you’re facing charges, your words matter—online and off. Social media posts, even if they seem harmless, can be used as evidence. Photos, comments, and location check-ins may be reviewed by law enforcement or prosecutors to support their case or damage your credibility.
Don’t assume your privacy settings will protect you. The safest choice is to stay off social media altogether while your case is pending. If you’ve already posted something you’re unsure about, let your attorney know.
3. Missing Court Dates
Failing to appear in court can lead to a bench warrant for your arrest, additional charges, and a loss of credibility with the judge. Sometimes people miss court because they forget, misunderstand the date, or feel overwhelmed. But the court won’t see it that way.
If you’re not sure when you’re due in court or you’re unable to appear, contact your attorney immediately. In some cases, your lawyer may be able to appear on your behalf or help you reschedule the hearing.
4. Ignoring the Long-Term Consequences
Many people facing charges are primarily focused on avoiding jail time. That’s understandable, but short-term decisions can have long-term effects. Accepting a plea deal without understanding the full impact could hurt your future in ways you didn’t expect.
A conviction can affect:
- Employment and professional licenses
- Immigration status
- Housing opportunities
- Custody arrangements
- Firearm rights
Before agreeing to any deal, make sure you fully understand what’s on the table. An experienced defense lawyer can review the charges and assess the bigger picture.
5. Waiting Too Long to Hire a Lawyer
Time matters in criminal cases. Evidence fades. Witnesses disappear. Deadlines pass. The earlier you speak to an attorney, the more options you may have.
A strong defense often begins before charges are even filed. In some cases, your attorney may be able to stop charges from moving forward, reduce the severity of what’s filed, or negotiate early with the prosecutor. Waiting too long limits those chances—and puts you in a reactive position.
If you’re facing charges, don’t wait for things to get worse. The sooner you get legal guidance, the better you can protect yourself.
Talk to a Contra Costa County Defense Attorney Today
Facing criminal charges doesn’t make you a bad person. It makes you someone in a tough situation who needs strong, reliable representation.
At The Law Offices of Johnson & Johnson, we’ve spent more than 30 years helping people across Contra Costa County and the Bay Area fight criminal charges. We know how prosecutors think—and we know how to push back. The sooner you contact us, the better your chances of achieving a positive outcome.