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What to Expect in Your First Meeting with a Criminal Defense Attorney

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What to Expect in Your First Meeting with a Criminal Defense Attorney

What to Expect in Your First Meeting with a Criminal Defense Attorney

Whether you have been charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI) or a violent crime such as assault, you need the help of a criminal defense attorney. It can be intimidating to meet with a lawyer for the first time, and you may have to discuss some fairly personal details. It can help to know how to prepare so you can feel less nervous, and so that the initial meeting can be more productive. Below, our Missouri criminal defense lawyer outlines some tips that can help you better prepare and make the most out of it.

Explain the Circumstances of the Arrest

Much of the first meeting with a criminal defense lawyer will revolve around what happened before, during and after your arrest. You need to be as specific as possible so the lawyer knows exactly what occurred. To best prepare, you should know what questions the lawyer will ask you so you are prepared to answer them. Some of the most common questions include:

  • Did the police officer handcuff you?
  • Did you have to go into the police car?
  • Did you say anything prior to the arrest,  or after you were placed under arrest?
  • Did a search take place and if so, where?
  • Did the police officer give you a warrant? If so, did you read it?
  • Did the officers ask for your consent before they searched?
  • Did you give permission for the search?
  • What was the extent and nature of the search?
  • Did law enforcement seize any of your property?

It is important to be as honest as possible when answering these questions. There is no need to feel embarrassed, and if you withhold information from the attorney, it could hurt your case.

Bring Important Documents

If you have any important documents that pertain to your case, it is important to bring them with you to the first meeting. This documentation can include an order of protection, a misdemeanor or felony complaint, receipts for property taken, supporting affidavits, and more. A lawyer will need to know what these say, and will review them to determine how they play a role in your case.

Ask Questions

Although the lawyer will ask you a number of questions, you should also take this opportunity to ask questions of your own. You may already have a list of these. Some of the most important questions to ask are:

  • What are my options?
  • How many cases similar to mine have you handled?
  • Do you see any problems with my case?
  • How often will I have to appear in court?
  • How long will it take to resolve my case?
  • How much do you charge for your services?

You should walk out of the first meeting with a criminal defense lawyer feeling better prepared for the rest of your case. Obtaining the answers to the above questions will help you do it.

Call Our Criminal Defense Lawyer in Missouri for a Meeting Today

Scott A. Hamblin is a highly skilled Missouri criminal defense lawyer who can build a strong case to help you retain your freedom. Call us today or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help.

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