I’ve been charged with a crime, what now?
Being charged with a crime is overwhelming—but it’s important to understand that a charge is not a conviction. What you do next matters.
1. Do Not Panic—and Do Not Talk
This is not the time to explain yourself to:
Police
Investigators
Alleged victims
Friends on text or social media
Anything you say can be used against you—even if you think you’re helping your case.
2. Contact an Attorney Immediately
Early legal guidance can:
Protect your rights
Prevent damaging mistakes
Help shape the outcome from the start
Waiting almost always makes things harder.
3. Understand the Charge
Your attorney will help you understand:
What you are charged with
Whether it’s a misdemeanor or felony
Possible penalties
Immediate consequences (bond conditions, no-contact orders, license issues, etc.)
Knowing what you’re facing reduces fear and improves decision-making.
4. Follow All Court Orders Exactly
If the court has issued:
Bond conditions
No-contact orders
Reporting requirements
Follow them to the letter. Violations can result in new charges—even before your case is resolved.
5. Preserve Evidence
Save anything that could matter:
Text messages
Emails
Photos
Videos
Receipts
Social media content
Do not alter, delete, or “clean up” your phone without speaking to your attorney.
6. Avoid Social Media
Posting about your case—even vaguely—is risky.
Private messages are not truly private.
Silence is protection.
7. Show Up and Be On Time
Missing court dates or appointments creates unnecessary problems and can lead to arrest warrants. Reliability matters.
8. Take Care of Yourself
Criminal charges are stressful. Sleep, eat, and lean on trusted support—but not as a substitute for legal advice.
Clear thinking helps your defense.
9. Remember: Being Charged Is Not the End
Many criminal cases are:
Reduced
Dismissed
Resolved without trial
The outcome depends heavily on preparation, compliance, and strategy.
10. The Most Important Thing to Know
The system moves slowly—but mistakes made early can follow you forever.
Get informed. Get represented. Stay calm.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Laws change, and the application of law depends on specific facts. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for legal counsel. Reading this post does not create an attorney–client relationship. Contacting our office through this website, blog, or email does not create an attorney–client relationship unless and until a formal written agreement is signed. This blog discusses Tennessee law and procedures. Laws differ from state to state, and even county to county. If your case is outside Tennessee, consult a lawyer licensed in your jurisdiction. This post may be considered attorney advertising under Tennessee law. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own facts. Please do not send confidential information through this blog or website. Any information submitted through this site is not protected by attorney–client privilege.
