1. Criminal cases generally proceed quickly.
Criminal cases are different than civil cases, family law cases, or any other cases in which you may have had previous experience.
Criminal cases are typically processed quickly because of legal scheduling requirements. Because of this, you likely have a specific date set for a court appearance in the near future. (Scheduling information can be located in your bail documents, citation, or arraignment letter.)
This strict timeline dictates that certain decisions and choices must be made quickly, and only allows for a limited opportunity for early intervention by your attorney.
2. Every decision you make regarding your case can potentially impact the outcome.
Immediately after an arrest, there are many decisions you will need to make, such as,
Should I post bail for my spouse, son, or daughter?
Should I try to cooperate and speak openly to the police?
Should I hire an attorney?
Because there are many important decisions which need to be made after an arrest, you need to have a clear understanding of the possible consequences. This process should be carefully managed with the help of a defense attorney, to help you avoid pitfalls, as you can learn at: Attorney Representation.
3. You need to thoroughly understand the options, strategies, and most suitable solutions for you.
An informed decision allows you to make appropriate choices for you and your family.
Your best path to understanding is through the advice and counsel from the criminal defense lawyer who works in and is familiar with the local justice system where your case is based.
This attorney should have a substantial background handling the type of criminal case in which you are charged.
Use a level of care in choosing an attorney wisely, the same care you would use in selecting a physician.
Do not seek out a criminal defense lawyer simply because he or she is the least expensive. If your monetary resources are limited, you are probably better off with a court-appointed lawyer.
Once you have a better understanding of what you are facing, you can then make appropriate choices based on what makes sense for you and your family.
4. You should trust your instincts.
If you have an uncomfortable feeling about a lawyer, trust your instincts, and keep interviewing more attorneys. Don't be pressured by a fast sales pitch. Make sure that your goals and your lawyer's goals are consistent.
5. Your attorney will have a better opportunity to help you if he or she fully understands the circumstances of your case.
Be absolutely forthcoming with your attorney. Your criminal defense attorney is your advocate and his or her job is to help you, not to make assumptions or pass judgment. An honest and open discussion with your attorney will allow him or her to provide you most specific advice tailored to your best interests.
Learn more about how I pursue available alternatives for clients at: Strategies and Solutions.
You can also contact me directly at: 213-400-5355.
5 Things you need to know about your criminal case
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