{"id":3362,"date":"2013-12-02T09:54:08","date_gmt":"2013-12-02T15:54:08","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/bgs.com\/?p=3362"},"modified":"2013-12-02T09:54:08","modified_gmt":"2013-12-02T15:54:08","slug":"accused-of-a-crime","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bgs.com\/blog\/2013\/12\/02\/accused-of-a-crime\/","title":{"rendered":"What Should I Expect if I\u2019ve Been Accused of a Crime?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Being charged with a crime is a stressful situation, but now is not the time to panic! Let\u2019s talk about the process you\u2019ll be going through to help you get a better understanding of what to expect.
\nTaken into Custody<\/strong>
\nYou will be taken into custody when the police charge you with a crime. You do not have to make statements or answer questions, either before or after you are formally charged. It is best just keep silent. If you do speak, however, make sure to be truthful.
\nRemember, you are not admitting guilt if you ask for a lawyer, despite what you may have seen on television. In fact, now is the time to do just that.
\nBail Hearing<\/strong>
\nYou will go before a judge who will either set a bail amount or release you on \u201crecognizance,\u201d or your promise that you will return for all of your court dates. If the judge sets a bail amount you will either have to come up with the money or work with a bail bondsman to secure your release. Sometimes a lawyer can help you get a lower bail amount.
\nInitial Appearance<\/strong>
\nThis court appearance is designed to determine the following:<\/p>\n