One of the most common mistakes in criminal cases is hiding the truth from your own lawyer. Many people believe that keeping certain details to themselves or altering the story may help them, when in reality it only weakens their defense.
In our latest TikTok video, Ignacio Estradé addresses this topic clearly: lying to your lawyer won’t save you; it can sink you.
Why do some clients lie to their lawyer?
As Estradé explains, criminal defense lawyers often deal with clients who do not tell the whole truth. The reasons are usually varied:
- Shame about admitting what happened.
- Fear of being judged by their own lawyer.
- A misguided strategy, thinking that hiding certain facts might help the case.
- Or even a distorted perception of reality, especially when emotional factors are involved.
However, all these reasons have the same effect: they limit the lawyer’s ability to build a solid defense.
The duty of honesty between client and lawyer
The relationship between client and lawyer is based on trust and confidentiality. Everything the client communicates to their lawyer is protected by professional secrecy, which means it cannot be disclosed to third parties under any circumstances.
Therefore, telling the truth does not pose any risk. On the contrary: it is the only way for the lawyer to anticipate the possible arguments of the prosecution and prepare an effective strategy.
Lying weakens your defense
When a client lies, the lawyer builds their strategy on a false foundation. And when contradictory information appears during the judicial process, the entire defense collapses.
Moreover, the lawyer loses time, credibility, and the ability to react effectively. That’s why lying to your lawyer is not only useless—it's counterproductive.
As Ignacio Estradé sums it up very well:
“If you lie to me, I won’t be able to defend you effectively.”
Trust: the first step toward an effective defense
At Estradé Law Firm, we believe that sincerity is the first act of defense.
Telling the truth —the whole truth— allows your lawyer to evaluate the case objectively, protect your rights, and act strategically.
Criminal law practice is not about judging the client, but about ensuring they receive the best possible defense within the law.
In summary:
🔹 Lying does not protect you.
🔹 Hiding information harms you.
🔹 Trusting your lawyer can save you.
