Law Offices of Christina DiEdoardo

Being arrested or accused of a crime can be one of the most stressful experiences a person can go through.  Stressful people make mistakes--and mistakes made in the first hours of a case can have a dramatically negative impact on how that case ultimately resolves.  Accordingly, here are a few words of wisdom to help you through the process:

1. SAY NOTHING.  The police may promise you everything short of the moon "if you'll just answer a few questions....".  Our Founding Fathers gave us the right to remain silent for a reason-use it!
2. DEMAND TO SPEAK WITH A LAWYER.  Politely repeat this request as often as you need to until it is complied with.
3. NEVER CONSENT TO A SEARCH. There are situations where the police don't need a search warrant (an order signed by a judge) to search your person or property, but those are very limited.  ALWAYS insist on a search warrant.  If you do, your lawyer may be able to get the negative evidence the police find suppressed--or thrown out of the case--by the judge.  If you consent to the search, almost all defects are waived and the evidence will probably come in.
4. CALL US.  We're happy to provide a free consultation--please call (415) 839-5098.

Despite the propaganda from the credit card companies and predatory lenders, it is still relatively easy to file bankruptcy.  There are two main types for individuals:

Chapter 7

1. Eliminates most unsecured (e.g. credit card and medical expenses) debt;
2. Can be filed once every seven years;
3. Takes several months

Chapter 13

1. Repays part or all of unsecured debt through a reorganization plan;
2. Useful for dealing with some tax liens and to strip 2nd mortgages in some situations;
3. Can take as long as five years to complete

Please contact us at (415) 839-5098 for a free consultation.