1. WHEN DO YOU FIRST NEED A CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY?
a. When you are under investigation.
It may surprise you to know that the best time to seek out the advice of a reputable criminal defense attorney is BEFORE charges are filed. That may sound strange, but there are times when it is possible to prevent criminal charges from ever being filed. A good defense attorney understands this and can work with you to avoid having your life turned upside down.
b. When charges have been filed.
In those instances where criminal charges have already been filed, it is important that you IMMEDIATELY seek the advice of a criminal defense attorney. Even when charges have already been filed, it is possible to stop those charges from being indicted by a grand jury.
c. When you have an Open Warrant.
When criminal charges have already been filed and the case has been indicted, remember that the sooner you contact an experienced, reputable defense attorney, the better. The clock is already ticking and the government is already working on your case.
2. WHAT SHOULD I DO IF THE POLICE WANT TO QUESTION ME?
Prior to ever speaking with the government you want the advice and counsel of an attorney who understands the law and how it will be used, by the government, against you.
Be polite, be cooperative, BE QUIET and ASK FOR YOUR ATTORNEY. You must understand that when the government wants to question you they are not your friend. They will use what you say against you. So the best thing to do is to be quiet and ask for your attorney.
3. SHOULD I HIRE AN ATTORNEY WHOSE PRACTICE IS DEVOTED ONLY TO THE PRACTICE OF CRIMINAL LAW?
To answer that question, you should ask yourself….. if I have a heart problem should I go to my dentist or to a doctor who specializes in heart problems? If you have been charged with a crime, you want an attorney who has the experience, dedication, and knowledge necessary to handle your criminal case correctly; your freedom may depend on the attorney you hire.
4. CAN YOU PROMISE WHAT WILL HAPPEN IN MY CASE?
No attorney can guarantee or promise the outcome of a case. Be wary of attorneys who make such promises. However, an attorney can, through training and experience and relationships developed over time with judges and prosecutors, form an educated opinion regarding possible outcomes. This is why it is important to engage the services of a reputable, experienced attorney.