Hiring a defense lawyer can be an intimidating process, especially if this is your first experience with the criminal justice system. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor or a felony, the stakes are high. A conviction can follow you for the rest of your life and affect everything from your reputation and relationships to your ability to rent or get a job.
Choosing the right defense attorney is one of the most important steps you can take if you’re facing criminal charges. Your lawyer will advocate for you, protect your legal rights, defend you, and seek the best possible resolution to your case.
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your initial consultation and choose the best attorney to handle your defense.
Gather Important Documents
Preparing for a consultation with a criminal defense lawyer begins with gathering all relevant documents pertaining to your case.
Essential documents could include:
- Arrest records: Bring any paperwork you received at the time of arrest, such as booking documents or police reports. These provide crucial details about the charges against you.
- Court summons: If you’ve been summoned to court, include any notifications or documents that outline your court dates and the specific charges.
- Documentation of prior convictions or arrests: Past arrests or convictions may bar you from certain alternative sentencing arrangements. Your lawyer will need to see specific charges to understand your legal options.
- Previous legal correspondence: Gather any letters, emails, or formal communications from prosecutors, previous lawyers, or court officials related to your case.
- Bail documents: If applicable, have your bail paperwork on hand, which will help your lawyer understand the conditions of your release.
- Restraining order information: Bring any relevant paperwork if a restraining order has been filed against you.
- Witness statements or contact information: If you possess any witness statements or have the names of witnesses who could support your defense, bring this information.
You should bring anything else that you think may be important evidence, such as documentation, photos, emails, texts, or voicemails.
Be Prepared With Questions
To make the most of your consultation, prepare a list of specific questions to ask your lawyer.
Below are questions you may want to consider.
- What is your experience handling cases involving similar charges?
- What are the possible outcomes of my case?
- What defenses are available?
- Do you think my rights were violated?
- Do you believe I would qualify for alternatives to prosecution?
- How will you communicate any updates regarding my case?
- What are the biggest challenges in my case?
- How often do you go to trial?
- What is your fee structure?
Ideally, you want an attorney who has extensive experience handling similar cases. There are important differences between domestic violence cases and drug crimes, for example. Federal crimes, in particular, require specialized experience. Not all defense attorneys in Alabama are admitted to practice in federal courts, and there are different procedures involved.
As the attorney addresses your questions, consider whether you are comfortable with their style of communication and their approach to your case. Do you feel comfortable with the attorney handling your case? Do they seem to have good experience with similar charges?
Finally, you should discuss fees during your consultation. While you shouldn’t choose an attorney based on cost alone, it is admittedly an important consideration. Make sure you understand how the attorney’s fee structure works, and decide whether it’s an amount you can afford for legal representation.
Be Ready For an Honest Discussion
Honesty is critical when discussing your case with a lawyer. Share all details, even those that might seem unfavorable. Full disclosure allows your lawyer to create the most effective defense strategy and anticipate potential challenges. It’s also necessary to give you accurate and helpful legal advice.
Remember, attorney-client privilege ensures confidentiality, so withholding information only hinders your defense.
You should also be ready to discuss your background. Your lawyer will need to understand your general personal and professional background. Any prior criminal record is also critical because it affects options like alternative sentencing that may be an option in your case.
Avoid Social Media, and Do Not Discuss Your Case
Discussing your case outside your legal team can jeopardize your defense. Avoid conversations about your case with friends, family, or acquaintances, and refrain from posting about it on social media. Do not share any details about your pending charges, arrest, or other information regarding your case. Do not check in, like, or comment on any apps or social media during this time.
Remember that even if your social media profiles are set to private, any friends may screenshot posts or information. This may seem unlikely, but it’s best to avoid any risks that can harm your case and threaten your freedom. Because anything you say or post can potentially be used against you in court, it’s best to keep all discussions within the confines of your legal counsel.
Consider Possible Outcomes and Your Goals
Before your consultation, think about what you hope to achieve and the possible outcomes of your case. Are you aiming for a dismissal, plea bargain, or trial? Your goals will shape the defense strategy.
It’s important to understand the potential consequences and weigh them against your goals. You should have realistic expectations about the possible outcomes of your case. After a discussion with your lawyer, you may need to adjust your goals. Your lawyer will discuss not only the charges but how evidence, the prosecutor, and your criminal record may affect your case and legal options.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Birmingham Criminal Defense Lawyers
If you are facing criminal charges or believe you’re being investigated, it’s crucial to act quickly. The earlier you seek legal counsel, the better.
At Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C., we have 100 years of combined experience representing clients in Birmingham, Alabama. We are ready to help you. Contact our law office today at 205-930-9800 to schedule a free case evaluation with a Birmingham criminal defense attorney. We will help you understand your legal options and discuss a defense strategy against the charges you face.