Facing criminal charges can be a daunting experience, and seeking legal representation is a crucial step in defending your rights. If you’re considering hiring a criminal defense attorney and are about to make that initial call, it’s natural to feel a mix of emotions. To help you prepare, we’ve outlined what you can expect when you call a criminal defense attorney’s office for yourself or for a loved one for the first time.
Confidentiality and Attorney-Client Privilege
One of the first things you should know is that conversations with a criminal defense attorney and their staff are protected by attorney-client privilege. This means that anything you discuss is confidential, and their office cannot disclose it to anyone without your consent.
Professional Reception and Initial Information
When you call a reputable criminal defense attorney’s office, expect a professional and courteous interaction with the receptionist. The staff is trained to handle calls with sensitivity and confidentiality. In addition to your basic contact information, it is helpful to have the following information handy: name of the accused, date of birth, booking number (if applicable), charges or basis of investigation, the Court the case is charged in (if applicable), the next court date, and any prior conviction information. You may not always have the totality of this information available to you – and that is okay. The staff will ask specific questions and do their best to fill in the blanks and provide the attorney who will be consulting with you as much pertinent information as possible.
Initial Consultation with Attorney
Like Castillo Law, many criminal defense attorneys offer a free initial consultation, either over the phone, virtually, or in person once the initial information is obtained by the support staff. During this consultation, you can briefly explain your situation, and the attorney will assess the legal aspects of your case. If you have any documentation related to the case, it will be helpful to bring this to your in-person consultation or have it available to access during the call. Having these materials ready can help the attorney better understand your situation.
The attorney will likely give you a preliminary evaluation of your case during this initial consultation. They may discuss potential legal strategies, defenses, and the possible outcomes based on the information you’ve provided.
Once the attorney has gathered the relevant information, they will also provide you with a quote for their services and explain the legal fees structure to you, which may include a payment plan. At Castillo Law, quotes are given on a case-by-case basis, based upon the circumstances of each individual and their specific case.
Remember – don’t hesitate to ask questions during your initial call and consultation. These are your opportunities to clarify any doubts about the legal process, potential outcomes, or the attorney’s experience. A good defense attorney will be patient and provide clear, honest answers.
If after your consultation, you decide to hire the attorney, they will guide you through the next steps in the process. This will involve signing a representation agreement and possibly gathering additional documentation and/or discussing attendance at court proceedings.
Calling a criminal defense attorney for the first time can be a significant step toward securing your legal rights, but it can also be intimidating. By knowing what to expect, you can approach the conversation with confidence and make informed decisions about your legal representation. The right attorney can make a substantial difference in the outcome of your case. Castillo Law is available to take your call for a free consultation at 602-795-6701 or 480-206-5204.