When you find yourself in an undesirable legal situation, having an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side can dramatically help lower your worries. During the legal process, your attorney is able to provide guidance, advice, and even comfort. Knowing that your case will be handled in a professionally with your best interest in mind is the most ideal way to enter into the legal proceedings.
Here are four questions you should be asking your criminal defense attorney about your case and the way they are handling it.
How often will we be in communication?
If you’re facing criminal charges and there’s a chance you may be forced to pay fines or face time in jail, you’re going to want to find an attorney who is available to answer your questions as they come to you. You may have questions about your court dates or potential outcomes of the case or new evidence and testimonies. It’s important to be able to stay in regular contact with the personal handling your case, as this is likely going to help ease your worries about the status of your case.
Has all of the evidence and discovery for my case been gathered?
Having all of the correct evidence and discovery for your case plays a huge role in how the trial process will be handled. Make sure to ask if everything from police reports to video and audio tapes, to photographs and other evidence has been shared with you and all other parties involved. Ask if there is any evidence that could be missing or can be challenged by opposing counsel. Is there a defense investigation that can be done that could help prove your innocence? These are all things an experienced criminal attorney would look into and can answer for you.
What should I be doing during the trial process?
During the trial process, an experienced attorney should be able to guide you through steps or certain behaviors that can help with the outcome of your case.
Consider asking the following questions:
· Is there any other information or records you need from me?
· Is there anything I can do to improve my case status – whether anger management classes, AA meetings, special counseling, etc?
· Will I need to testify?
· Do I need to provide witnesses that will help with my defense?
What punishments am I facing, and how likely will I be sentenced to them?
Of course it’s impossible for your attorney to be able to tell you the exact fate of your case, but whatever criminal defense attorney you hire should be able to tell you possible outcomes. You should find an attorney that won’t just tell you what you want to hear and won’t sugarcoat what the courts may decide as far possible punishments in the event that you are found guilty. A good attorney will be able to give you an idea of the range of likely outcomes and can also help give you advice that can help put you on a path that may have the opportunity to reduce sentencing or the harshness of the punishment. Be ready to hear worst-case scenarios along with “there’s a chance of dismissal”.
Keep in mind, the relationship between you and your attorney is a very important part of creating your defense case. Ask as many questions you feel you need to until you are comfortable. Deciding on the right criminal defense attorney can make or break your case.
If you or someone you know are currently being charged with a crime, finding an experienced criminal defense attorney is a very important part of the process. Russell Spatz has years of experience, and is ready to take on your case. Give him a call today at 305-442-0200.