Ever caught yourself yelling at the TV during a courtroom drama because something just doesn't seem right? Well, chances are, you might be onto something. The U.S. criminal justice system is riddled with myths that movies and TV shows have perpetuated over the years. Here, we debunk the top 10 legal myths with insights straight from the experts, ensuring you know the facts versus fiction.

First up, the Miranda Rights. Contrary to popular belief, police officers do not need to recite these rights upon every arrest. They are only required when a person is in custody and about to be interrogated. Anything you say before these rights are read can indeed be used against you in a court of law, so think twice before speaking.

The notion of the guaranteed "one phone call" after arrest is another Hollywood fabrication. In reality, this isn't a federal law, and while many jurisdictions allow detainees to make a call, it's not an immediate right and can be subject to various limitations.

Many also mistakenly believe that if a victim decides not to press charges, the case automatically disappears. However, criminal charges are pursued by the state, not individuals. The state considers various factors, including public safety and evidence strength, before deciding to proceed with prosecution, regardless of the victim's wishes.

Forensic evidence such as DNA and fingerprints is often seen as foolproof in crime shows. The truth is far more complex. These methods are susceptible to human error, contamination, and interpretation issues, making them anything but infallible.

"Pleading the Fifth," or invoking the Fifth Amendment's protection against self-incrimination, is often interpreted on screen as an admission of guilt. In legal reality, it is a right to protect oneself from providing self-incriminating evidence, and it does not imply guilt.

One dangerous myth is the notion that innocent people don't need a lawyer. This could not be further from the truth. The legal system is intricate, and proper legal representation is essential to navigate it effectively, regardless of one's innocence.

While jury trials are a staple of dramatic courtroom dramas, they are not as common as you might think. Many cases are settled through plea bargains or decided in bench trials by judges, bypassing juries altogether.

The concept of "double jeopardy," which prevents someone from being tried twice for the same offense, has nuances. It only applies to the same jurisdiction, and being acquitted in a criminal court doesn't prevent civil legal actions or separate charges based on the same incident.

Field sobriety tests (FSTs) are another area rife with misconceptions. Passing these tests does not guarantee that you will avoid arrest for DUI or DWI, as they are highly subjective and used primarily to establish probable cause.

Lastly, it's a myth that everyone charged with a crime is automatically stuck in jail until trial. Most accused individuals are eligible for bail and may even be released on their own recognizance, depending on the case's circumstances.

In conclusion, the U.S. criminal justice system is complex and often misunderstood due to widespread myths. Knowing the truth is crucial not only for those involved in legal proceedings but for anyone who wishes to be accurately informed about their rights and the law. If you're facing criminal charges, securing a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney is not just advisable; it's essential.