I am under investigation…what should I do?

There is nothing more frightening that having someone tell you that you have been accused of a crime and then proceed to read you your rights.  Many servicemembers are stunned when they are in this position because often times they feel they have done nothing wrong and sometimes don’t know anything about the crime at issue.  Regardless of what you know when you are read your rights, in my opinion, you should remain silent and then speak with an experienced attorney.  If you want to speak to the individual investigating you and answer his questions, you can always go back and do that later once you have received advice.  Many servicemembers feel that by not waiving their rights, they will appear guilty.  That is simply not the case.  Your rights are there to protect you, guilty or innocent.  No matter your involvement in the matter, if you choose to speak to the investigator without first receiving advice, there is a chance you may say something that is not in your best interest.  Whereas, if you say nothing at all, there is no chance that you will say something you regret.  Tell the investigator that you read an attorney’s blog once that said that you should not waive your rights and that you simply don’t feel comfortable doing so until you have spoken to an attorney.  That type of a response to the investigator will not make you appear guilty, but instead will make you appear cautious.  No one can fault you for being cautious.  Investigations can lead to court-martials or other adverse actions.  Each case is unique.  You need someone with experience by your side to help you through the investigation process.  I have that experience.  Please call me for help.  To speak to an experienced court-martial and military defense attorney, call Bill Cassara at 706-860-5769 for a free consultation.