Criminal Attorney: Making the Initial Call
When you find yourself accused of a crime your first thought should be retaining a criminal attorney. The entire process can be overwhelming and you don’t want to get so caught up in all that is going on that you skip the most important thing you can do to defend yourself. By speaking with a professional for legal advice you are on your way to finding out what options you have and how you protect your personal rights.
Searching for Representation
While you are given the option of having the state provide representation for you,
it is a better idea to contact your own criminal attorney. Here you can be sure that you are the customer and your case will be a priority with the firm. However finding just the right firm can be a challenge. How do you know what to look for? While there are several different things to take into consideration you want to make sure that the person you choose specializes in helping people who are accused of crimes and works hard to ensure that all of their rights are taking into consideration. You also want to find a person with experience.
Information to Provide When You Call In
Once you have found a criminal attorney make a call to set up an appointment. Unfortunately, if you are currently incarcerated, you will not be able to meet at the lawyer’s office. When someone answers you want to give them your name and explain that you would like to obtain representation. You can set up an appointment and arrange for them to come and meet you or, if possible, you can meet in one of the offices of the law firm.
You may feel a little bit awkward making this call and giving someone that is not your criminal attorney some of your personal information. Don’t worry. Everyone within an office signs a contract stating that the privacy of clients is of the highest priority. You can also just provide the basics, like your name and contact information, and request that someone give you a call back.
Setting Up the Appointment
If possible, choose a time that will fit well into your schedule. Depending on your situation you may have an upcoming court date. You want to make sure that you have plenty of time to not only obtain representation but also to fill him or her in on the specifics of your case. This will take time, so do your best to be as available as possible for several meetings before the court date. You may also spend some of the time working on your case over the phone. This makes it easier for both parties to arrange a set time to communicate.
Try to Relax a Little
Being accused of anything is very stressful. You have worries and concerns and may be experiencing the stress of the outcome. Remember that because you have hired a criminal attorney to represent you, there is someone that knows the law and has experience that is working on your side, to make sure that your side of the story is going to be heard.
