Criminal Defense Attorney Aid Starts with a Consultation

Hiring a criminal defense attorney is one of the smartest decisions a person can make. If charged with a crime, these professionals will work with you to prove you did not commit it or that you do not deserve the full extent of punishment possible. Every situation is different. When you hire these professionals, they will work with you to ensure your case gets a fair trial. In addition, they will help ensure you have the best chance possible at proving your case. Without these professionals, you could risk the full extent of punishment possible.

The Initial Meeting

If you are unsure if a criminal defense attorney is necessary or you want to find one that you can trust, the process starts with an initial meeting. During this meeting, you will work with the professional to provide information about your case. You will likely need to tell the lawyer what happened with as much detail as possible. You will need to explain what circumstances led to the situation as well.

During this initial meeting, or consultation, you will be protected from attorney-client privilege. This means that anything you tell the professional in this working relationship is protected information. He or she cannot and will not share it with anyone else. Here are some of the most important things to cover during this meeting.

- What happened and why it happened. Explain in detail and do not leave out little things you do not think matter.

- What you are charged with and how those charges were filed. Where and when the charges were brought.

- What evidence may be available to use against you. Interviews with police, evidence found at the scene or other statements from individuals need to be disclosed.

- Determine what the lawyer's abilities and skills are in cases like your own. Ask, "Do you have experience in this type of case?" Chances are good you will learn about it.

- Determine what it will cost you to have legal representation. Find out how bail will work, if that applies in your case. You also want to hear what the criminal defense attorney suggests in terms of your defense.

After you have a consultation, you should be able to trust this professional. If you feel, for any reason, that he or she is not willing or is unable to work with you and give you the time needed, choose a different lawyer instead.

A criminal defense attorney has the job of representing you. This also means he or she needs to be honest and up front with you about what you are facing. Planning a defense means you have to trust in the attorneys but it also means you need to be honest about the case.