Committed To Advocating For The Accused In Tennessee
My name is Julie R. Canter, and I am a Tennessee native with nearly 20 years of experience as a criminal defense attorney. I have passionately represented clients in Kingsport, Bristol, Elizabethton and the surrounding areas of northeast Tennessee. I take great pride in defending my clients, preserving their rights and providing them with the support and care they need during this difficult time.
With my experience as a former prosecutor, I know what strategies to use and what tactics to look out for in the courtroom. I use this advantage to build a plan of action for my clients and help them feel confident about their current situation.
What Should I Do After An Arrest?
Facing a criminal charge of any severity is a position that no Tennessee resident want to find themselves in. Throughout my firm’s history, I have successfully stood up for clients accused of the following criminal offenses:
- Murder/Manslaughter
- Sexual offenses/sex crimes
- Drug offenses
- Assault
- DUI/DWI
- Federal crimes
- Theft
- Harassment
While successfully defending against one or any of these charges is not a guarantee, it is crucial to act carefully and take the proper steps to ensure you protect yourself and avoid making incriminating statements. After an arrest, your focus should be on remaining silent and informing the officers that you wish to exercise your right to remain silent. This will help you avoid providing the police with additional evidence that could be used against you later in the process. Secondly, you should request to speak with your attorney. Doing so will prevent the police officers from interrogating you further.
What Is An Arraignment?
An arraignment is a person’s first court appearance after an arrest. At the beginning of the hearing, the defendant will have their rights explained to them and hear what charges they are facing from the judge.
Afterward, the judge will ask the defendant how they plead to the charges. At this point, the defendant can plead guilty, not guilty or no contest. A not-guilty plea is the only way to continue the judicial process and have the ability to defend yourself. Once a defendant has pleaded not guilty, they could be released or have a bail set by the judge.
Do I Need A Kingsport Criminal Defense Lawyer?
A criminal charge can wreak havoc on your future. If you are accused of criminal misconduct, your rights are on the line and there is no time to delay. With straightforward support from a Kingsport criminal defense attorney, you can prove your innocence and protect your reputation. Call my firm, Julie R. Canter, Attorney at Law, today at 423-771-9750 or email me for further guidance.