Do I need a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
If you have been arrested or are under investigation or have been questioned by the police or are involved in any criminal process of any sort, the answer is yes.

If you are unsure, consulting with a criminal defense attorney is a wise step. He or she can help you decide if you need representation.

What if I am innocent of the charges I’m facing?
Your innocence or guilt does not dictate your need for a qualified defense attorney. As a matter of fact, many times people feel a false sense of comfort, knowing their innocence. While we’d all like to believe that the justice system will protect us, innocent people are often prosecuted. Your best protection is hiring or consulting with a qualified defense attorney.

What happens if I’m questioned by the police?
It’s important to say absolutely nothing to the police until you have legal representation in place. Do not sign anything and make no statement.

This can be hard, especially when we’re wrongly accused. We want to clear our name or tell our side of the story. You must remember “anything you say can and may be used against you in a court of law.” Their goal is to gather evidence in order to make a conviction.

Police may employ strong-arm or deceptive tactics to get you to talk. They may even tell you they will not arrest you. Do not believe them. Speaking to the police needs to be an informed decision made between you and your defense attorney. Remember, every word counts.

But what if charges have already been made against me?
Then it’s more important than ever to employ the use of an experienced defense attorney. Your defense lawyer will determine the strength of the evidence against you. If it is not substantial enough, often charges can be dismissed before reaching trial.

If the evidence is strong, a defense attorney can decide whether you should go to trial or negotiate a plea bargain. Again, this is NOT something to attempt on your own. Your freedom is at stake and every legal element needs carefully examined.

How do I know what defense attorney is right for me?
Meet the lawyer and talk about your case. See how comfortable you feel with their appraisal of your case. Confidence with your defense attorney goes a long way.

How much will a good defense attorney cost?
The cost of a criminal defense lawyer can vary considerably depending upon nature of the charges that have been filed against you and the jurisdiction.

A more complex case may carry a greater retainer than a simpler case. Occasionally, though, a minor charge may carry a substantial retainer because the defense attorney foresees the need of extensive motion practice or aid of an expert witness.

In a misdemeanor case, the typical fee can vary significantly between cities, counties and states. A lawyer may request a retainer of several thousand dollars. For felony cases, retainers often start at $5,000 - $10,000 and can be $25,000 or more for serious or life felonies, such as sexual assault cases or homicide.