WHAT TO EXPECT
When you hire me as your legal representative, you can expect a high level of professionalism and dedication to your case. I will thoroughly analyze your situation, research the relevant laws, and develop a strategic approach tailored to your specific needs. Throughout the process, I will keep you informed about any updates or progress in your case, and I will be readily available to address any concerns or answer any questions you may have.
Here’s a step-by-step guide of what to expect during the process:
In our initial meeting, we’ll take an in-depth look at your case. This isn’t just about knowing the charges against you; it’s about understanding every aspect that could affect the outcome. Here’s what will happen:
- Case Review: We’ll walk through each charge, discussing potential defenses and possible outcomes.
- Question & Answer: You can ask any questions about your case or the overall process, ensuring you have a solid understanding of what lies ahead.
- Preparation Discussion: I’ll provide guidance on how to prepare for the future steps in your legal journey.
Arraignment is your first formal court date. Here’s how I will support you:
- Court Appearance: I’ll represent you in court, saving you from potentially overwhelming formalities.
- Plea Entry: I’ll enter a plea of “Not Guilty” on your behalf, which allows us more time to build a robust defense.
The discovery phase is a critical part of the criminal process. Here’s what happens during this stage:
- Evidence Exchange: The State will share all evidence they plan to use against you. Any evidence we plan to use in your defense will also be shared with the State.
- Evidence Analysis: I’ll review all details of this evidence, ensuring nothing is overlooked.
- Client Involvement: You’ll receive copies of all information exchanged and we’ll discuss it together. If there are any potential motions that could strengthen our position, we’ll explore these together too.
Court dates are regular check-ins set by the court to ensure that both sides are performing Discovery and the case is progressing. Here’s what these involve:
- Frequency: Expect to have a court date every 30-45 days.
- Purpose: These dates are a chance for the court to ensure Discovery is being conducted and the case is moving forward.
- Negotiations: Between and during these court dates, I’ll be advocating for you, negotiating the best possible outcome.
Here’s what happens during the trial stage:
- Decision Making: After Discovery is completed and the State has made their final offer, we’ll discuss your options. I can provide advice, but ultimately, the decision is yours.
- Trial Proceedings: If the State’s offer isn’t accepted, we’ll proceed to Trial. Our goal will be to convince the Jury to return a verdict of “Not Guilty.” This will involve presenting our evidence, questioning witnesses, and making strong arguments on your behalf.
Throughout this process, I’m here to ensure that you understand every step. It’s my job to make complex legal proceedings clear and manageable for you.
