Criminal Defense Lawyers

fled us with an open criminal case

So You Fled the US with an Open Criminal Case? Here’s What You Need to Know

Getting charged with a crime is scary. I totally get it. The uncertainty about your future can make anyone panic. Will you go to jail? How will this affect your family? What will your friends think? All these terrifying questions can make a person feel like running away from it all. But let me give you some real talk here – fleeing the US when you have an open criminal case is pretty much the worst thing you can do. It will make everything way harder in the long run.I know it seems tempting to just hop on a plane and disappear. But trust me, that urge comes from fear, not logic. As someone who has worked with tons of defendants in this situation, I’m here to walk you through exactly what happens when you flee the US with an open criminal case, and why coming back to face the charges is really your best move.

What Goes Down When You First Split

Unless you’re on probation or parole, nothing will happen right away when you initially take off. The police won’t come chasing after you like in the movies. Here’s how it usually plays out:

• Your court date comes up and you’re a no-show. The judge will probably put out a warrant for your arrest at that point.
• If you were out on bail, that money is now gonezo. Byeeeee bail money!
• If it’s a minor crime like a traffic ticket, the police might not hunt too hard for you. But for more serious felonies and misdemeanors, they’ll be on the lookout.
• Most importantly, you’ll likely get slapped with the additional criminal charge of “failure to appear” or “bail jumping.” Not good, my friend.

So while it feels like you dodged a bullet at first, the consequences are quietly piling up. And just wait until you get caught…

When Johnny Law Catches Up with You

You might be able to avoid the authorities for a while, but probably not forever. Here’s what goes down when you eventually get apprehended:

• You’ll be immediately detained, no ifs, ands or buts. You’ll likely spend the rest of your trial in jail rather than out on bail.
• Remember that brand new failure to appear/bail jumping charge? That’s its own crime now, bub. You’ll face additional penalties for that on top of the original charges. We’re talking fines or even more jail time.
• The judge will be way less likely to give you any leniency on the original charges. Skipping town is basically like begging for the harshest punishment possible.
• If you’re convicted, any jail time for bail jumping gets added on consecutively (back-to-back) after the other sentences. So your total time behind bars balloons big time.
• Having a bail jumping conviction on your record also screws you over if you get in legal trouble again down the road. You’ll be seen as a major flight risk.

So I know it seems like no biggie at first, but fleeing the country when you have an open criminal case can seriously ruin your life down the line. Those consequences stack up fast!

Your Best Move Is to Come Back and Face the Music

I’m not gonna lie to you – getting arrested sucks. The uncertainty about your future is terrifying. But bolting is not the answer and will only make things way messier. Here’s what I recommend you do instead:

1. Hire a Lawyer

The first call you need to make is to an experienced criminal defense attorney. Find someone who has specifically dealt with cases like yours before. A good lawyer can help make sure your rights are protected and get you the best possible outcome.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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2. Work with Your Lawyer to Review the Case

Your attorney will pull your file, look at the charges, and figure out what kind of plea deal or sentencing you might be able to get. They’ll also check for any speedy trial or statute of limitations arguments that could potentially get the case dismissed.

3. Voluntarily Return to the US

In coordination with your lawyer, come back to the US to get the warrant lifted and go through the criminal proceedings. It shows maturity, responsibility and respect for the justice system. All of that can help reduce your punishment.

4. Get the Best Resolution You Can

With your lawyer’s assistance, work out the most favorable plea agreement or trial result possible. It’s still an uphill battle, but way better than being a fugitive!I won’t pretend it’s easy to come back and face criminal charges. But evading them indefinitely is nearly impossible and only makes things harder in the end. Having an experienced lawyer help you navigate the system is critical.While it may not seem like it, the justice system actually wants to encourage people to voluntarily return to court. Work closely with your attorney to make sure you get credit for doing the mature thing and coming back to take responsibility. That can potentially help reduce the penalties you ultimately face.Yes, the case will still be on your record. But an acquittal or conviction with minimal punishment is a heck of a lot better than being a wanted fugitive with additional failure to appear charges! With the right legal strategy, you can move on with your life rather than always looking over your shoulder.I hope this overview helped explain what really happens when you flee the US with an open criminal case. I know it’s a scary situation, but avoiding it forever just isn’t realistic. Lean on your lawyer to bravely face the charges and get the best resolution possible. You got this!