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06 Aug, 2022 by Rakeal
I never go out of my way to write bad reviews at that, but I’m going to fight and fight to be heard! Krystal needs to be fired and I’m going to the attorney office Monday and making sure something happens, if not, they’re definitely covering her butt for some reason! She’s the reason domestic cases are escalating and people are getting hurt, women are getting hurt. I just think this women is not fit for her position what so ever. And like I stated before I am ready to fight to be heard about the ones who legit shouldn’t have authority. This is personal, this is for the safety of the people of Arizona. And start getting rid of the ones who are making the office look so bad.
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16 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
3 years probation for an unlawful search and seizure.
Other person who was with me had their case dismissed. Would not recommend Matthew. Threw me under the bus to satisfy the prosecuter.
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18 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
If you're ready to go to prison you should go ahead and get Mr. Morris as your lawyer he will be so hard to contact. If your court gets vacated, he will not call you and let you know when your next court date is or that your court is being vacated. He will get you to throw out a plea to continue to go to trial and then leave you and your case without informing you that he's done working on your case and just leave you like a bad habit. I felt like he really wasn't concerned about my case as much as I am of course but I feel like I did all the footwork to prove my innocence and when he was called to be informed of what I have came across evidence-wise I never was able to really get a hold of him at all. Mr Morris might have been licensed for 32 years but I also see he doesn't have any reviews so pay attention to that people. And hopefully you come across a better lawyer than this one.
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10 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
Under a definition for prosecutorial misconduct, corruption or liar , this man's name should be written. He gets paid by the people to lie, cheat, break court orders, use dirty tactics, completely insane behavior. No morals whatsoever, more then that, he will lie with no remorse. Stay away from this man as he will violate several court orders and also he would commit prosecutorial misconduct without consequences.
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27 Jun, 2022 by Barragan
He did not show up at my sister courtday he don't have any contact with her any call back nothing really bad
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06 Jul, 2019 by Guilty until prover innocent
When case was made. I didn’t see this guy until the day of my court hearing. How is a case to be managed without at least one sit down and initial conversation of what happens and what the plan is or may be
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05 Oct, 2009 by Anonymous
Mr. Bustamante and his office are rude, don't do much work, and violate laws left and right. I am shocked nobody has complained about him yet. He refuses to get back in a timely manner. From my own experiences with this lawyer it seems he lies and cheats his way through court room proceedings.
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19 Nov, 2020 by Shirine
Back in 2012 I personally had a case as everyone does something dumb when they are young. It’s been 8 years since this situation. As I am a responsible adult now who is trying to clear her name, during this covid pandemic from California which is where I’ve always lived. Allegedly this public defender does not wish to waiste 1 minute with myself... her client and has the Tucson city clerks covering for her. I’m just trying to clear my name and give my father his last wishes as he is in hospice. Everyone American is dealing with much more than I am. My only wish is to resolve this situation . The only way I can resolve this situation is to speak to the public defender that is directly related to the case which she represented me in. I understand public defenders are doing their best to go through as many cases as they can but I want every citizen to know how hard it is to even get 1 second of Christina’s time to look at a case that was apparently thrown away... be careful out their! Know who is representing you and understand that allegedly not every public defender is working for the public, sometimes they only care about special interests and not your well being.
This 9 year old case I’m attempting to get information on is critical. If this case is not solved, I may never be able to get a proper job or purchase a home or even pass a background check till this day. I haven’t driven a car in 9 years and cannot get a permit until this “public defender” gives me the information I need to move on with my life.
Good luck patriots! I’ll keep trying.
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21 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
Greg failed my expectations of avid legal representation. He did not advise me AT ALL during my probation interview, and now I am still facing repercussions of the incident two years later, and will be for another two. He mistook my sentencing hearing for a pretrial hearing, so I went in the the sentencing with no preparation. He was overly confident in everything he said and prepared. Overall, if you want weak legal representation, go ahead and hire him. I likely would have been better off with a public defender.
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02 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Treated me as if my case was an inconvenience for her. also for two weeks leading up to my case was unable to get her on the phone until i threatened to get another attorney. even then i still never met her in person before my case. on the day of my case she refused to give me the details of my plea until i made an appointment to meet with her. this is what i was trying to do before my court date. i was forced to request continuance so i could obtain adequate counsel. would not recommend her to anybody.
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10 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
I was mischarged with a crime and Mr. Ipson was appointed to represent me. Initially, I could tell that it was an inconvenience for him. After the appointing, he and I chatted in the hallway for a couple minutes. He gave me his card and said after our next hearing we will have a better understanding of what's going on. I show up to my court date with my lawyer no where in sight. A hour passes, and still no Mr. Ipson. Finally, the judge has someone go out and call him. No answer.. Finally after a third time of trying to reach him, he answers. Once, he shows up 90 minutes late!!!!! He sits down next to me and immediately starts whispering to me and makes me feel like he was siding with the state. After the hearing, we once again go out in the hallway to talk. He said, I'll be in contact with you within the next week." A week passes, NO CALL! 10 days pass, NO CALL! So, I try calling him... NO ANSWER! I leave a VM to have him call me when he can. Another couple days passes with no return phone call. I try again and get the same result. I wanted to know when my next court date was so I could make sure to get work off and MAINLY see what's going on with my case. I call a third time and I get his VM again, BUT, this time his VM said, "he will be out of the office for 10 days. I call again on the day he was to return with no answer or call back. Long story short, my court date was 2 days after he got back from his vacation. Which I wasn't aware of because once again I received no phone call back. I didn't find out I missed my court date till my bail bondsman informed me that I had a warrant out for my arrest. My court date was rescheduled and it was my bondsman that informed me.... NOT MY LAWYER... who has yet to call. I show up to court and once again, he is no where to be found. I waited 15 mins while court is ongoing. Then, I bailed! I know, leaving court wasn't the smartest thing to do.. I was scared and didn't want to be thrown back in jail due to the warrant. I left, called his office AGAIN with no answer. The VM of him being on vacation was still his VM. Even though, it was a good 10 days after his vacation was over. I fired him over the phone and went out and bought a laywer who was amazing! I understand that you get what you pay for. I learned a valuable lesson because I was naïve. I've never needed a lawyer before and didn't know what I was doing. In my eyes, I thought a lawyer was suppose to make things easier. When that's the complete opposite what Mr. Ipson did for me. In the end, I've learned a few lessons. 1. Never go with a public defender! and 2. I should of tracked down my own court date, instead of relying on my representation. I wanted a lawyer who was willing to fight for me and my family name. Mr. Ipson could of cared less about me and only thought of me as a number instead of a taxpaying citizen. I can safely say I have never written a bad review about someone so others may see. It's not my style! He may be a great lawyer, i just didn't get to see that aspect.
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10 Mar, 2019 by Cheryl
I had Mr. Leather's represent me back in 2013 after my first lawyer said I would get a better outcome downtown at the superior court but I would have a different lawyer assigned which was when I got leather's. Every single month that I had him he never remembered my case let alone did any work on it to get charged reduced. I am a first time offender and never knew until I pleaded guilty to a crime that I was forced to commit (I passenger an Xbox I was renting from rent a center to pay rent a center) I never knew every month that I went to court if that was going to be the day they would throw me in jail, so with kids I made the decision to plead guilty. Well come to find out when the judge read me my charges I learned that I was being charged for furniture and a TV that rent a center DID come and pick up. I had no idea cuz in Mesa I told the other lawyer that all those things rent a center came and picked up and that I still had the pawn slip to get the Xbox out of pawn that I had no intentions on losing it and used the money i got from the pawn shop to pay rent a center cuz my abusive ex boyfriend forced me to do a temp loan on the gaming system "cuz it was an embarrassment to all his friends that they would take all our stuff back since we had it all for less than 2 weeks. I was in ministry at my church at the time and had gotten away from my ex, I had letters from character witnesses that was requested from leather's that he did absolutely nothing with. The prosecuting attorneys office refused to renegotiate my sentence as he did not present then with any of the facts or rebuttals. I boy only lost my dignity, but I lost my career as I was a CNA/pct/EMT because I am now a felon and lost my homes, cars, career, family everything because of the lack of proper representation. All he would say is "we're going to take it to trial" without explaining why he wasn't trying to go against the prosecuting office. I had no money to hire a different lawyer and if I knew then what I know now I wish I would have cuz now I owe over $7000 that after 5 years of probation that was only supposed to be 2 years and 120 hours of community service plus I have a DESIGNATED felony charge and 1 undesignated felony for "trafficking stolen property" and "theft" whereas I never even had a traffic ticket and have always been law abiding.
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12 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Samuel is not knowledgeable at all. Never return calls. He is not familiar with texting or emails. Just a waste of time and money. Avoid!
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12 Apr, 2022 by Giordano bruno
Avoid this lawyer at all cost. Will sell you down the River. Does not understand civil rights laws or the constitution.
Literally watched her client be assaulted for using a camera by the police and did nothing.
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06 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
He has no ethical values to help the innocent, sign a plea is all you will get, if you want to take your case to trial and know you can win, he will tell you he can't win sign away your rights is what you will get.
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10 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
I had vincent appointed to me in a criminal case against me. He does an incredible poor job, does not care about what is going on.
All he wants to do is make you sign any kind of plea deal the prosecutor offers.
If he is appointed in your case your in TROUBLE.!! BEWARE.!! SWITCH HIM OUT .!!
ASAP.!!!!!!!!
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27 Jun, 2015 by Katherine
We were very disappointed in the handling of the case against Dustin Palen. This man had committed nonviolent offenses during the grips of his addiction. Immediately after he checked himself in to rehab and has 13 months sober now. We had provided endless documents proving his sobriety and his contribution to society. She was not willing to take any of this in to consideration and would only offer 8.5 years. We had two courts dates scheduled and she did not show up to either appearance and refused to respond to any correspondence attempted. I cannot express enough our dissatisfaction with this lawyer.
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20 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
This attorney was the exact reason public defenders get a bad name. He was arrogant, unconcerned about my future or what the outcome of my case would do to it. Narrowminded, shallow, and unprofessional at times. Not trustworthy for his promises or his knowledge. He didn't strike me as sharp or ambitious or that he even likes his job.
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14 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Unfortunately Ms.Smith was never reachable nor would she contact me back at any point during my case while I was in jail.
The day before sentencing she did a 15 minute video visit to tell me that there was no chance I was getting reinstated to probation and to give up any hope of me getting out. When I asked her what amount of time I was facing she cut me off by saying she wouldn't get into sentencing with me that instead she was there to see what mitigating factors I wanted her to point out to the judge I was beginning to explain but again she cut me off to tell me she wasn't going to be saying none of what I asked because as she put it, she was not going to stand up and run her mouth of like other lawyers and tarnish her reputation with the judge since they go way back she instead failed to do her job along many other lines of unprofessional and client negligence. Had I not had my family's or boss's support or had I not written the best self advocacy letter and personally not read it to the judge, I'd still be miserably wasting my life away in a cell. As a matter of fact due to all this I will be following up with a charge form on her on her law practice with the state bar.
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25 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Bradley Armstrong is not a reliable lawyer. If you hire him, expect to lose. He charges $300 per hour without providing invoices, doesn't read emails, and shows up to court unprepared. Don't waste your time sending him your files—he won't bother to review them. He is an incompetent and ineffective lawyer.
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22 Sep, 2023 by Celeste
Jain handled my sons case. He did nothing to help me son. He called one witness and that witness was added 2 weeks before the trial began. He didn’t try to do anything. Come to find out his strategy was that the state needed to prove their case and he didn’t think they could. Do not use him for anything!
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07 Aug, 2014 by Debramierkey
As a former client, I do not recommend this lawyer for the following reasons:
He did not complete assignments requiring timely follow up action;
He did not obtain my consent for the way he used my funds;
He did not return important phone calls;
He involved his assistant in matters beyond her capability.
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20 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Ashley did absolutely NOTHING on our case.. Nothing. If you get in trouble during the NCAA Tournament, you are SOL! She does no "Law" work at all.
Then, she's some kind of referre for the minor leagues of Basketball. That keeps her unavailable from Thursday thru Monday. She is part-time like a paper route when it comes to law.
Terrible bed side minor. Actually, we never heard from her after she came into our home and promised us many things that she never delivered on.
If you get her as your Public Defender, guaranteed your going to DOC.
She doesn't even deserve one star.
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13 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
I was a client of this lawyer during this year. During the conversions that I had with this lawyer their comments were mean, hurtful and bullying. I would not recommend this lawyer.
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22 Mar, 2012 by Anonymous
Petersen and his firm are horrible, they do not communicate about your case, it is almost impossible to speak with the attorney directly they push you off to a staff member. Does not work dillegently and is very good at procrastination. While my case was with his firm I was never updated as to where the case stood unless I made constant inquiries, as I began to become frustrated and threatened to fire them, they finally decided to work on my case and still made very little progress in extended periods of time. After firing the firm and finding a new attorney, I found out that they had lied to me about details in my case, there is no reason whatsoever to trust Petersen or his staff. They are lazy and could care less about their clients. I would never reccomend this firm, I would tell anyone to seek out a different attorney who will work for you and keep you informed, something this firm has great difficulty doing.
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30 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
I was referred to Bernita Clark from a friend at church. I had just moved to Arizona with my daughter whom I’ve had custody of. I was told she would fight for me and understands my financial situation. I agreed to pay $200.00 a month until my case was complete. The case was simple, my daughters mom had been gone for two years with no contact with our child. Bernita was given emails with my stating she didn’t want the child and was on probation for a DUI. Before went in front of the judge, Bernita meet with my daughters my explaining what was going to happen in the court room giving her tips. When we appeared in front of the judge Bernita did not object or say any words but “I agree”. So the Jude ruled split custody’s and now we have to modify the order because law informent stated the order was not clear and there needs to be a modification. Feeling hopeless she took advantage of me knowing I was desperate and needed help. I have to hirer another lawyer to fix my case. My daughters step father emotionally abuses her daily and I can’t do anything. Please seek other options. She’s not in it for the passion but the pay check.
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04 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
He is the biggest slime ball in Cochise County. He lies, covers up, manipulates, and more. While married, he even sent naked pictures of himself to a married woman who is the age of his daughters. He needs to be investigated. There is some shady stuff going on, please help us.
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16 May, 2019 by Erin k
Refusing to prosecute misdemeanor child abuse, misdemeanor domestic violence and assault on a minor despite DCS substantiated child abuse, and two Superior court Judges granting Orders of protection in TWO COUNTIES. Multiple calls made to office as well as Sedona Police Chief without response-other than a very rude secretary for the City DA stating Law to me and basically telling me “too bad” please explain how this office CANNOT prove guilt when the Sedona PD arrested the abuser on felony charges, DSC substianed child abuse and perp has a OOP against him.... Anyone?
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26 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
He filed charges knowingly doing the erong thing on so many people. Really makes me wonder if he believes in witchcraft and just how powerful it can be against fools.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Brad is a terrible attorney, and isn't afraid to take your money then withdrawal from your case. As he did mine.
He basically used my 9000$ to fund his campaign to become pinal county attorney!
Afterwards withdrew from my case and charged me 9000$ worth of emails we ever sent to each other.
He appeared once on my case virtually just to postpone preliminary hearing.
He did NOTHING! FOR ME OR MY CASE AND STOLE ALL THE MONEY I GAVE HIM TO HELP ME WITH MY CASE.
not a good person or attorney.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You
A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.
Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.
When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:
- Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
- Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
- Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
- Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
- Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
- Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:
- Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
- Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
- Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
- Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
- Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
- Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
- Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.
How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?
Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:
- Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
- Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
- Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.
The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:
- Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
- Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
- Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
- Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.
Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:
-
What is your experience with cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has a strong track record with the specific type of criminal charges you’re facing, whether it’s DUI, drug offenses, or violent crimes. -
What is your fee structure?
Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs. -
What are the potential outcomes of my case?
A good lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case and the likelihood of dismissal, a plea bargain, or conviction. -
How many cases have you taken to trial?
While many criminal cases settle with a plea deal, it’s important to hire a lawyer with courtroom experience in case your case goes to trial. -
Who will handle my case?
Ask if the lawyer will be personally involved or if other attorneys in the firm will handle most of the work. -
How do you communicate with your clients?
Be clear on how often and through what channels you can expect updates on your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer
To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:
- Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
- Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
- Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
- Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:
- Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
- Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
- List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
- Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.
By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.
