If you face criminal charges, your future is on the line. This is not the time to follow the advice of friends or try to work out the best course of action alone.
If you do this, you could make mistakes that deepen the trouble you are already in. Here are some examples of that;
1. Destroying evidence
It’s easy to panic when facing charges, even if you did not commit the crime you stand accused of. A friend might tell you to hide or destroy a particular item because the prosecutors might use it to convince a judge you are guilty.
There are several problems with this. Firstly, destroying actual evidence could lead to additional charges. Secondly, being caught hiding or destroying things could convince people that you must be guilty, even though you are innocent.
2. Talking to law enforcement
Whether it is saying too much, or lying to get the law off your back, they can both make your situation worse. If the police arrest you, using your right to legal representation can help you understand what is OK to say and what is not.
3. Going on the run
Maybe you have been in trouble with the law before and know that a conviction for this latest charge will result in a long time in jail for you. That does not make running from the law any wiser. Once again, fleeing justice could be seen as a sign you are guilty and it could also bring extra charges or endanger your life.
There is always a chance to defeat criminal charges. Getting reliable information about how to do that is far better than following a friend’s advice or trying to work things out alone.