Criminal Investigations in Myrtle Beach

Criminal investigations can be difficult to navigate because of the uncertainty around law enforcement’s intent. You could be under investigation as a criminal suspect, accomplice, or witness. You have a right to legal representation during criminal investigations in Myrtle Beach. 

An experienced criminal defense attorney could protect your interests when responding to law enforcement inquiries and participating in the investigation process. If you have concerns about potential involvement in a criminal investigation, you can contact South Carolina Criminal Law today to schedule a free case evaluation.  

What Is the Difference Between a Criminal Investigation and an Arrest?

A criminal investigation generally refers to any communication with law enforcement leading up to or after an arrest. When you are under arrest, law enforcement has a duty to state the alleged charges against you. They also have an obligation to inform you of your right to speak with a lawyer and to have them present during all future communications.

At this time, you must expressly and clearly state that you want to speak to a lawyer to invoke your right to counsel. Any communication or testimony obtained after this moment without having had an opportunity to speak with a lawyer can be inadmissible. Myrtle Beach law enforcement must follow these rules when speaking with you as part of a criminal investigation once you invoke your right to legal counsel.

When participating in a criminal investigation with law enforcement, you can be at a disadvantage without the presence of a lawyer. You may not fully understand law enforcement’s purpose during a line of questioning or request for information about alleged criminal activity. For example, you may not know if law enforcement is treating you as a witness or a suspect, and they may not be forthcoming about their intent. 

Responses given during a criminal investigation can also be misinterpreted or taken out of context without a lawyer’s guidance. Additionally, you do not know what other information or evidence law enforcement may possess that could be harmful to you in conjunction with your contribution to an investigation. Consulting with a lawyer first is always recommended before engaging with law enforcement in a criminal investigation.

How a Criminal Defense Lawyer Could Help During an Investigation

An experienced criminal defense lawyer could help you in many different ways throughout an investigation. Our job is to identify issues in the possible criminal case and advocate for your rights to a fair legal process. The first of these issues is the decision to assert your right against self-incrimination protected under the Fifth Amendment of the US Constitution. Choosing to plead the Fifth in response to a criminal investigation is an important decision that requires careful analysis of your case. We could help you understand the strengths and weaknesses of this decision given the specific circumstances of your case.

A Myrtle Beach defense lawyer could also advise on the exchange of physical evidence as part of a criminal investigation. Law enforcement does not have a unilateral right to search and seize your property as part of their investigation. They must first obtain your consent, obtain a warrant from the court by establishing probable cause, or have a legal right to search or seize based on the circumstances. You never know what law enforcement’s purpose is when requesting items from you and how those items could be used against you in a criminal case.

Contact a Myrtle Beach Attorney About a Criminal Investigation

Uneven power dynamics, fear tactics, and trickery can make criminal investigations in Myrtle Beach a stressful experience. A criminal defense lawyer could help provide legal advice and help you navigate an investigation with your best interests in mind. Contact our firm today to schedule a free case evaluation.