Facing Criminal Charges? How To Help Your Attorney Help You
If you are currently facing criminal charges, you probably know that your best course of action is to hire a reputable criminal defense attorney. Going to court by yourself and attempting to handle your case without legal representation can be scary and can put you in a bad legal situation.
However, simply hiring a lawyer is not enough -- you have to be cooperative. These are a few ways that you can help your attorney help you.
Give Your Lawyer Some Time
Don't wait until the last minute to hire an attorney. Your lawyer is going to need time to go over the facts of your case and to prepare for court. Although he or she might be able to have your case continued to get more time, this is not always an option. It is best to hire an attorney as soon as you are charged with a crime so that he or she will have ample time to prepare.
Tell the Truth
If you don't tell your lawyer the truth, he or she isn't going to be able to give you sound advice. It might be tough to admit the truth about what's going on with your case, but your lawyer is your ally. He or she deals with criminal cases every day and isn't going to judge you, but he or she will be better prepared to handle your case if you are honest. This means that you will need to schedule a consultation so that you can talk about the events that led to your arrest.
Follow Your Lawyer's Recommendations
Depending on the nature of your crime and the courts in your area, your lawyer might make recommendations about how you can prepare for court. If you are facing a DWI or drug-related charge, for example, he or she might suggest that you attend substance abuse treatment classes or even inpatient rehab. Things like taking anger management courses, taking a driving class or performing community service might also help. Your lawyer can give you recommendations, but you're going to have to be willing to follow them yourself if you want the best outcome in court.
Your criminal defense attorney can help you drastically with your case, no matter what you might be in trouble for. However, you have to give him or her something to work with. To help your attorney help you with your case as much as possible, follow these tips. For more information about working with an attorney, contact a firm like Law Office of Michael Marinaro & Associates.