Being arrested is one of the most stressful situations there is especially when trying to make bail and phone calls. The first thought that comes to mind is what a person will tell their place of employment. Even if a person does not currently have a job, they could worry about their career aspirations with an arrest on their record. Simply because you are arrested does not automatically mean that you will be convicted. There are cases that are thrown out daily for a variety of reasons that include evidence being obtained illegally. The following are tips on how to deal with an arrest in regards to your career.
Hire The Best Legal Representation Possible
The option to hire private counsel is the best route to take if you can manage it financially. There are even some that borrow money to hire an attorney as their freedom is on the line. The last thing that you want is to have to rely on the public defender you are appointed as they likely have a large number of cases. You want an attorney that has relationships with the prosecutor and understands what each judge stresses. Trial experience is very important as there are some charges that you will not want to take a plea deal and want to fight. Understanding that going to trial could result in losing is something that your attorney will advise. Look for people with years of experience in the local area as a new attorney to the area might not have developed relationships with prosecutors. Whether you are looking for a criminal defense attorney Raleigh NC or in Charlotte, you need to ask for case results. Most attorneys that are proud of their results will list them on the website so you can see which charges they have dismissed or pled down.
Only Tell Your Employer If You Are Required
There are going to be certain arrests where you have to tell your employer as they could impact your ability to do your job. Other arrests can be kept quiet until you go through the legal process. Most employers are not going to retroactively do a background check on you. You might have to request to have mugshots removed from websites if you live in a state that doesn’t value the privacy of its citizens. Remote workers might not ever be in contact physically with their coworkers so they do not pose any danger. Check the company handbook about what to do in case of an arrest then make a decision on what you are going to do.
Use Your PTO Wisely
If you do not want to tell your employer you likely will have to take PTO for court dates. There are some cases that are handled virtually but this differs depending on location. You usually will get pretty solid notice before you have to attend court and court dates can be delayed if you cannot get the day off.
Getting arrested will not automatically derail your career but you have to be smart about it and fight your case.