If you've been fortunate enough to avoid dealings with the legal system up to this point, you may not realize that it's full of misconceptions. So many things people believe they know about the legal process are rooted in Hollywood creations, so it's not surprising to learn that myths persist. We want to shed more light on the legal process and dispel some persistent myths. Continue below to develop a better understanding of the legal system.

Myth #1: Trials Frequently Decide Cases

Courtroom trials are always depicted as high-drama situations in movies and TV shows. If you're responding to a lawsuit with the help of a criminal attorney, you may think you're also set to have that experience. You should know that the odds of your case going to trial are highly unlikely.

According to the Administrative Office of the United States Courts, more than 90% of defendants eventually plead guilty instead of going to trial. Many defendants choose to plead guilty after negotiating favorable terms with their respective plaintiffs. Pleading guilty may also be the more sensible move in a scenario involving an unpredictable jury. Hiring the right attorney is critical because they can identify the right course of action.

Myth #2: Talking to the Police Is a Must

In the aftermath of an altercation with another person, the police may invite you to the station for an interview. They clarify that you aren't being arrested or charged with any case, but they do want some information. After considering how your refusal to talk may appear in the eyes of law enforcement, you decide to attend the interview.

Remember that you have the right to remain silent. Even if you're at the station or in the middle of an interview, you can ask to leave if you're not being detained, and the police will have to let you go. You can also attend the interview together with your criminal attorney to ensure you don't say anything incriminating.

Myth #3: Resolving a Case Always Takes a Long Time

Lastly, you may have also heard the myth that legal cases take a long time to resolve. Some people may even cite this myth as the reason why you should avoid mounting a legal defense. Rest assured that cases are typically resolved within a more than reasonable timeframe. You can speed up the process further by hiring an experienced criminal attorney.

Legal myths are not harmless misconceptions; they can actively prevent defendants from getting fair rulings because they change how people approach cases. Avoid falling victim to those myths by choosing our professional criminal attorneys at Aaland Law Firm as your legal representatives. Contact us today for more information or to schedule a consultation.