Pre-File Investigations

What Should I Do if I'm Under Investigation for a Crime?

Criminal defense involves more than helping people who have been accused of committing a crime. Yes, the criminal defense process generally begins when police make allegations against you - but you may be under investigation for a crime you didn't commit before police actually arrest and charge you with it. If this happens, there are certain things you should and should not do. First, speak with a Phoenix pre-file investigations lawyer to make sure that the investigation does not infringe upon your legal rights.

In Arizona, the Arizona department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) oversees pre-file investigations. In short, a pre-file investigation occurs when police suspect an individual of committing a crime and take action towards proving or dispelling this suspicion. According to the DPS, the main goal of the CID is to protect the general public by investigating crime through innovation and specialized enforcement strategies.

Criminal Investigations and Drug Crimes in Arizona

Many criminal investigations involve narcotic-related crimes. The DPS and CID attempt to deter drug-related crimes. Drug crime is an umbrella term that can refer to any number of narcotic-related offenses. For example, possession of marijuana is one of the most common drug crimes. However, drug possession is a lesser offense and suspects are rarely investigated for it.

On the other hand, drug distribution and trafficking are serious narcotic-related offenses and the DPS and CID spend a great deal of time deterring drug trafficking and distribution via criminal investigations. Manufacturing illegal substances is also a drug crime. Along with trafficking, selling and distribution, manufacturing illegal drugs is a serious crime. Because of this, authorities may launch investigations to determine whether a given individual should be charged with drug manufacturing.

What to do if you're under investigation

Knowles Law Firm, PLC wants you to understand the ins and outs of a pre-file criminal investigation. Without this understanding, your rights may be violated. During the investigation, remember that you have the right to remain silent. According to the 5th amendment of the U.S. constitution, you do not have to give police officers a detailed account of your disconnection to or involvement in any criminal activity.

Police will probably ask you about your side of the story. Police may indicate that talking to them is in your best interest - this is not necessarily true. Anything you say that indicates your involvement in a crime will be used against you in court. If investigators try to ask you questions, speak with lawyer from Knowles Law Firm, PLC immediately.

Our Award-Winning Phoenix Criminal Lawyers Can Help

Don't make the mistake of waiting to call us until charges have been filed against you. A Phoenix criminal attorney from the firm can begin helping you before you've actually been accused. Without the help of an attorney, you may make an innocent mistake. The firm can protect your rights and help you navigate the investigation process to give you best chance of avoiding an arrest. During an investigation, you will subject to questioning. This can be extremely intrusive - even invasive.

Facing an investigation is stressful, frustrating and confusing; you may feel overwhelmed by the legal process and idea of being arrested. Let a lawyer form our firm give you peace of mind about the future. These Phoenix pre-file investigations attorneys can help you understand yours and, in the event of an arrest, stand up for your rights in the courtroom.