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07 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Similar situation as the anonymous person who posted first. Hired over a year ago still hasn't done anything to assist my case. When I asked for an update after about 3 months of no contact back he was very rude and refused to represent me any longer. Also made up false reasons to take the rest of my previous paid retainer that was not used. This man has caused more damage to my life and my situation and I know that I am not the only one there are several people that I have heard from face-to-face that have facts that will say the same thing.
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08 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
This attorney was hired in Feb 2017 to file a petition for a sentence reduction. He said he woud do this and have my son in court by the middle of May 2017. A year later, he still has not done this, but he kept saying he was going to. He deliberately ingnored phone calls and would never answer the question he was asked. When all other attempts were made, I asked on facebook how to contact him. Before I had laid down my cell phone, which is how I reached facebook, he rang me. He was screaming like some maniac saying I had no right to use his facebook. If he had answered my phone calls, I would not have thought of this. He never let me speak. He just kept screaming and then hung up in my face. He never did what he was paid to do and what he said he would do and then acted like some 4 yr old throwing a temper tantrum. I think you will be wasting your time, money, and hopes if you hire this person.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Brendan
I had a consultation with this guy, and he was quick to anger. He was rude, and would interrupt me mid sentence with lines like, "I think you have a misunderstanding of situation" I would attempt to explain and he would again cut me off. After I said something, he would then use like like, "So what you're telling me is. . ." and then he would insert argumentative statements that were not what I just said or a correct summary of my talking points. I would stay away from this guy, he seems verbally abusive to his clients, which might result in him putting blame on his clients when he failed them.
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20 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
I had a consultation with him but he was so rude, interrupt me many times and doesn't even listen carefully to what I said. I regret talking to him.
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24 Jun, 2022 by Mary
I met Cathryn Armistead after seeking counsel regarding matters concerning my mother, who could not represent herself. Ms. Armistead convinced me that I needed a conservatorship on my mother. She claimed that she would assist me with the conservatorship and any matter connected to it once it was obtained. Before hiring Ms. Armistead, her level of communication was high. After being hired and after she was paid, communication almost ceased entirely. Several months after the conservatorship was granted, I hired Ms. Armistead in an attempt to seek justice for my mother, who had been the victim of neglect in an area nursing home. Once again, Ms. Armistead communicated with me regularly until a retainer was signed for services. After not hearing from her, I reached out via email to ask about a timeline for starting proceedings; I did not receive a response to my email. I then reached out to her office about the matter and was told by her paralegal that she did not know and would speak to Ms. Armistead concerning my question. I never heard back from her office and Ms. Armistead. I reached out again, but still no response. After repeated attempts via email and phone to contact Ms. Armistead, I reported her to the Board of Professional Responsibility of the Supreme Court of Tennessee. After receiving a copy of the complaint, it was only then that I heard from her by mail. I received a letter terminating our contract because "our relationship had deteriorated" This is not about a "relationship" but business. I understand that it is within an attorney's right to decide not to pursue a case. It is grossly unethical and bad business not to communicate with a client. I knew Ms. Armistead had her faults in communicating, but given the fact that it was a case of nursing home neglect of a loved one, I thought she would step up. It is inexcusable to keep a client waiting when time is wasted on helping an elderly patient (my mother) in a nursing home. Unfortunately, it appears that Ms. Armistead is only interested in obtaining new business without doing the work she is hired to do and doesn't like being held accountable, given that she terminated our "relationship" after being reported. It says a lot about a person when they are incapable of offering an apology for wasting your time and resources.
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03 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
hired, she failed to support an innocent client, requested my case file information returned- never acknowledged the request. she sent a letter stating investigation of logistics near my residence, Never bothered to meet with me at my home, raised a concern as to the validity of the investigation. Friends and professionals questioned integrity of how the case was managed, -- rather mismanaged.
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15 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
She was really rude to me I contacted her trying to get paperwork about my case that I needed to try to hire an attorney and she got smart with me yelling at me and hung up she doesn't want to work with her clients she pretty much told me not to take the plea bargain now my case is being bounded over to Grand jury and now she is saying she is no longer my lawyer that I best hire one
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15 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Really hard to talk to and overspeaks. She also withdrew from my case without consent when expressing concerns of a better parenting plan or case.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
Leslie hunt was assigned to me as an attorney I went to court he did not even ask me anything about my case. Now instead of reviewing my case with me prior to my court date, he waits till we're in the courtroom in front of the judge and gives me two options either take a plea, or take to trial on a $180 misdemeanor theft charge. You do not want him representing you at all he will not fight for you he will not help you.
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20 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
We had to call multiple times to get a return call. What should have taken less than a year to complete actually took three years. Finally got another attorney and everything was resolved in less than six months! Will never use again.
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20 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Doesn't follow through. Never answers or return calls, or responds to emails.
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19 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Fortunately for me, I fired him a week after I hired him. His secretary says my retainer will be refunded to me via a check in the mail. We shall see. He never returned a single phone call. Even his secretary did not follow through with what she said she was going to do. Avoid at all costs.
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28 Jul, 2023 by Kenneth
Google her first... she is being charged with helping officers cover up a beating of an elderly man.
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08 Sep, 2022 by Mike
Emily is being charged with official misconduct in Lawrence County. Be warned as this is not noted on the avvo site. She tried covering up the beating of an elderly person by two deputies in Lawrence County.
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27 Aug, 2021 by Tim
He embarrassed me and upset me in court. I was forced to take him as my lawyer, after I asked the court, how I was supposed to afford a lawyer, since the police called my job and had me fired.
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04 Jul, 2022 by Carol
Has left my boyfriend sitting in jail for weeks with no contacting either him or me....he has no idea what's going on and lied to him about release datand this unprofessional and somewhat cruel inability for him to pick up a phone is tantamount to his obvious uncaring nature.
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16 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
She never defended me as her client everytime i called she never returned my calls and if she did she was rude and acted like it was me . i have never been in trouble and the 1 time i do i get 30 days in jail and supervised probation i wouldnt have her represent my worse enemy..
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16 Oct, 2020 by John
Used him for my social security disability. I got it but several years later I tried tobget in touch with him only to be so called black balled. He finally had a meeting with me and then he said was going to take care of my issue. See he was paid from my social security settlement and suppose to be my lawyer for that issue for the rest of my life.. But instead he said he no longer does those cases.. Sad.. He was a good lawyer up to that point...
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25 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Poor Service Poor Representation Little to no contact with clients Poor Professionalism all the way around
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06 Jul, 2024 by Leary8111
Mr Sizemore was appointed to my son in juvenile court, he did the bare minimum when it came to the case and my son still has not received paper work he requested in April and. that is the very least complaint I have. If u need an attorney for family court I recommend you look elsewhere. To much is at stake. In a nutshell my Grandson is gone and we will never see him again and I believe advice taken from mr sizemore is one of the reasons why.
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31 Jan, 2011 by Mike
He accepted my case and knew i did not have alot of money. He never answered his phone..... He never showed up to court and never called me.... I would have paid him more money but he never called me back......
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06 Jul, 2021 by Mary
He got with the DA made a deal and then turned on my son. He knew my son needed evaluation were drugs messed him up. Instead he go with DA and sent my son straight to prison. During the trial Westmoreland saw the jury looking towards them so he started tapping he head on the table. I dont know what to do he has even got my son's time so messed up i don't know if he will ever be back home.
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23 Jun, 2021 by Jeff
My wife and I reached out to Ms. Nicklos about representing us in a civil manner. My wife called her on two occasions. The first time she requested that we email her information about the upcoming case, which we did. I received two emails back from her that were short and quite honestly rude. So, I asked my wife to call her back to see if perhaps I was misreading her email replies. (We all bad days, right?) When my wife called back to inquire about how she wanted us to proceed, she said Linda was originally pleasant sounding when she answered the phone, then instantly switched gears and became rude and dismissive, when she discovered who my wife was. We still have no idea why Ms. Nicklos decided to handle us this way, but I emailed her back and told her we would look elsewhere for representation. Very odd encounter. Perhaps she has a relationship with the people we are facing in civil court, but that is merely speculative. I can't refute that she might be a good attorney for those she wants to represent, but that was not our experience with her. My advice would be to gauge her attitude during the first few days and look elsewhere is she becomes unprofessional and dismissive, as she did we us. I expect she will blast this review with some form of explanation that make us look bad, but honestly... I'd welcome that. I'd like to know her reasoning for being so "mean/rude" toward us.
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15 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
Don't bother. A complete waste of time and money. He is very unmotivated and acts as if you are "bothering" him when you call to follow up on your case. He was not passionate, compassionate, or aggressive and made it very clear that he was happy to take my money but when it was time to work he did the minimum. He did not keep me informed and I often had to call him multiple times and leave multiple messages. Lesson learned.
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29 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
This attorney will not contact you or if you're in jail will not come visit you or have any contact with you before court dates and will say they have no proof and then he changed on a case after almost 3 years and let someone else take over the case who no one knew to handle the case . I've never seen anything like this in my life . Lack of communication with clients
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03 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Avoid a trial with this lawyer. Many known instances of accepting trial-bound cases and withdrawing just before trial. You are faced with finding the money to pay another attorney, for which necessity does not have the sympathy of your residing judge. If you cannot find the money, you are in a worse situation by either a court-appointed attorney who does not care about your case, or a public defender... She is unprepared and pretends to do "research" into the intricacies of your case. Web searches with printouts you could have done; repeated verbal sessions of the events leading up to your arrest constitutes billable hours-- record yourself and give her the CD. Document each and every time you meet, and how long you are actually in her company going over the case. A "flat fee" still requires a detailed account of the counsel provided-- ask for it, and demand it.
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19 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
Hasn't spoke to ANY key witnesses in my case. Just got my final offer in the mail. Had a question about it and called every day for a week with no return phone call. If you want someone to lay your file on the desk and only pick it back up on court day then this is the lawyer for you. She was appointed to me, and unfortunately I do not have the funds to hire someone else.
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16 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
First of all...she didn't even come out to take us back to her office. We had no idea where we were supposed to go. Her tone, delivery & demeanor was cold, callous and right away , I wanted to leave. Do not recommend! Horrible
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26 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
I was recommended to this man by someone who had used him over 20 years ago, but oh how the legal field has changed, Atty Pritchard advised me on one thing over the phone, I took him his fee, a grand and he left me for dead, once we reached the courthouse he turned me in and never came back for two days. Now I have to begin all over and pay another attorney since he refused to honor his word. He told me the expectations and he failed miserably, he will take your money, he does not provide a professional consultation and will have you in jail after he takes your money. He is not a good lawyer a thief and crook. BEWARE!
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13 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
He is misleading. Drew told me what I wanted to hear up until the court date, then it was pay more if u want better results. Pick any other lawyer. After telling him I'm an alcoholic, Mr. Hazley gave me a beer bottle opener with his self-titled nick name "DUI Drew." He is bad news. Hazley charged me $2000 for a job a public defender could have done.
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22 Dec, 2023 by Tim
He seemed excited to help us with our case. Said it wouldn't take no time at all. He was eager to get the job done. Then we paid the guy. That's when he stopped responding, it was like finding someone that had back pay on child support.
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19 Sep, 2020 by Michelle
Joe Hoffer was my hired laywer several years ago. He acts as if he us going to do a good job for you. As they all do. But when trial day came he called me the night before wanting me to go ahead and make a deal. This deal would make me a felon. And i would loose my teaching license. I said no way i wont sign. So we met outside the courtroom the next morning. I had promised my daughter i would never leave her again. I had a gun held to me telling me to run from the police when me and i person i did know but not well at the time. So what do you do???? Well you run. So before trial he told me if i went to trial i would most definitly get jail time. So as i thought about the promise i made my daughter. I did sign the papers. Come to find out behind the doors where trial was to be held that day. Not one soul was even in that court room to try me. So now i cant work i can only draw disability due to the nervous breakdowns i had over this and more. My daughter and i have to live with my mother since my fiance was killed in a car wreck. I only draw 800.00 a month. And she is 15 and expensive. I get no help from her sperm donor either. Thats all he deserves to be called. Even she wont have anything to do with him or his family. So thank there Joe
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12 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
Absolute waste of money. This man is a disgrace to the legal profession: Never responded to any of my (the client's) correspondence to him. Completely ignored my instructions on when to file motions. Completely ignored my restrictions on billable activities. Made harassing telephone calls to my parents threatening them with contempt of court. Never provided me with any written progress reports. Logan had no experience in defamation law. Tried to drag things out as long as possible. Never filed a motion to dismiss. Filed papers without my consent. When you retain Jimmy Logan, he thinks he has a license to bill. He never did even one thing that would be helpful to me. Disclosed confidential information to opposing counsel. Ran up billings as much as possible for activities that had nothing to do with my case. Very unprofessional appearance. Dragged out the proceedings as long as possible.
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27 Nov, 2019 by Eileen
Jerry will tell you that he works for you. That’s the first lie. Everything in your case is predicated on how little he will do, not do as he is asked within the law, and take your retainer and get this, want more money to do his job. He refused to acquire evidence that would have cleared my name from the asst DA. With nearly $2000 left of my retainer Jerry basically told me to go home like a nice little girl because if I anger the court with my legal request the court could throw me in jail. He then wanted to charge me $600 when there was nearly two grand on my account which he has not earned.
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02 Aug, 2017 by Shane
I was very dissatified with service. I would call for weeks with questions about my divorce and would get no answer. Had to make an appointent to get help after paying him. Paralegal was a disappointment also. I would never recommend this law firm.
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14 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
I was referred to attorney Brannon to represent me on a DUI offense. I was told he was the best in Memphis, however I've received the total opposite. Brannon and Associate was late for every court session, hours late and they rarely return phone calls. The receptionist is rude and inpatient. Brannon didn't show any empathy for me as a client, he over charge me on a misdemeanor case, over 3,000.00. You would think spending that type of money, he would put some effort in actually fighting for you, and getting deal you could be satisfied with. Brannon expect me to pay him almost 4,000.00, pay all sort of court cost, and loose my job. He didn't put in an effort to try and get me a better deal, he and his associate was so nonchalant about the situation which force me to look for legal assistance elsewhere. I could go on and on, but I believe I've made my point. I wouldn't recommend Brannon to anyone, not even my worse enemy!
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17 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Ok at first; explained things well then quit communicating. When I attempted to communicate he would become quite aggressive, stating I did not trust him and even went as far as to threaten to drop me as a client if I did not leave things alone. I had questions and would get ambiguous responses. I would then ask a follow up question, because it did not make sense, but he just belittled me and told me how every question cost me money (but without ever answering my original question). I expected a direct, honest response but received the opposite- except for the first consultation where I chose to hire him...and yes, paid the retainer.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. What is your fee structure?
    Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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