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First Steps After Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney

Admin • Jul 09, 2018

You’re facing charges. You’ve hired a criminal defense attorney. And now you’re wondering what to do next. While your attorney might set to work building your defense, your job isn’t over yet. Keep these first steps after hiring a criminal defense attorney in mind if you want to maximize your chances of clearing your name.

 

Learn About Your Case

It’s crucial you familiarize yourself with your case process for your peace of mind and so there are no surprises. Ask your attorney what happens next and what you can expect in the coming weeks. Some criminal cases move slowly while others resolve relatively quickly. It all depends on how your attorney handles your case and the pace of the court.

 

Be Proactive

Depending on your charges, your attorney may ask you to do a few things. For example, if you are facing charges for a drug-related offense, your attorney will ask you to abstain from drugs and perhaps enroll in a substance abuse treatment program. Or, if you are facing family violence (i.e. domestic violence) charges, your attorney may ask you to enroll in an Anger Management Class or Battering Intervention and Prevention program. Be proactive, and stay involved in your case.

 

Prepare for Court

If you need to appear in court, now is the time to make sure you have something respectable to wear. Many defendants overlook the importance of appearance when in court. Men should wear suits, and women should wear business attire. This is especially true for trial. The prospective jurors should look at the defense table and think everyone sitting at it is a lawyer. They will only have this impression if you are dressed professionally.

 

Make Arrangements

Discuss with your attorney what could happen if you are convicted. Whether it’s through a plea bargain or at trial, a conviction means you will be sentenced. Your attorney can advise you on the likely consequences of your charges. For example, if your attorney anticipates you will be given some jail time , now is the time to look into incarceration alternatives. Similarly, if you are looking at a DWI conviction , start learning about what you will need to do to get your license back as soon as possible.

 

Learning about what to expect and preparing for it should be your focus right now. Trust us when we say you won’t want to be surprised with anything the judge says. It’s far better to inform yourself of what could happen in court beforehand. If you are at a point where you haven’t hired a criminal defense attorney or think your current attorney may not be the fighter you need right now, consult with a Dallas-Fort Worth criminal defense attorney with trial experience. It’s important to speak with an attorney who has experience fighting cases all the way because such an attorney will be best able to advise you on all your options and which is the best for you.

 

If you’re facing criminal charges in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, JBabb – Criminal Defense Attorneys is here to help. JBabb – Criminal Defense Attorneys will advise you on the best course of action. With law offices in Dallas and Denton, our attorneys provide compassionate legal services to Dallas, Collin, Denton, Ellis, Rockwall and Tarrant counties. Our experienced attorneys handle a wide variety of criminal cases including DWI/DUI , assault/family violence, and other misdemeanors and felonies. Call (214) 329-9433, email team@jbabblaw.com, or fill out our confidential online form to schedule a consultation with a Dallas-Fort Worth criminal defense attorney.

 

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