Even a criminal charge can ruin your life even before you ever set foot into court. You are coming off of a life focused on what matters to you, whether it be your liberty, job, family, reputation. Or you are confused as to what should be your next word or action?
Why can the first few days of a criminal case be critical? This can save you from making disastrous mistakes, and help you understand what your options are if bankruptcy is an option for your financial situation.
Sherman Oaks Criminal Defense Lawyer reviews the claims against you, clarifies how the legal process works, and devises a defense approach founded on facts of your unique case.
Your Case is More Than About the Charge
The fact of a charge is only part of the story. The circumstances of the case will be different, and two people are facing similar allegations they may have very little in common.
An attorney may review:
- Police reports and arrest records
- Witness statements
- Surveillance or another video evidence
- Text messages and digital records
- Physical or forensic evidence
- The circumstances surrounding the arrest
The review may spot factual disputes or evidentiary issues with the case or reveal a procedural deficiency in the way it was prosecuted.
Do Not Rush into a Decision
Following an arrest, you may be pressed to justify yourself or agree to pursue the first resolution offered to you. Do not make big calls in ignorance.
Outcomes can range from dismissal through a negotiated resolution to going to trial − all depending on the particular facts of your case and other considerations. Whether the evidence is offered in a particular case or not, and how much of it can be come depends on California law as to the charges involved.
A Sherman Oaks criminal defense attorney can outline for you the potential advantages and disadvantages of various strategies.
What Constitutes a Good Defense Lawyer?
Selecting an attorney shouldn’t just include looking to see whether they practice criminal law.
Think about their experience with cases like yours. Ask them if they go to the relevant courts regularly. Know who will personally deal with your case.
Communication is also important.
Your lawyer needs to explain legal matters without overloading you with confusing jargon. One must answer the valid questions and keep you aware of any big change with regards to it.
Questions Worth Asking Before Hiring
A consultation is more than just a chance for you to talk about your case. It is also an opportunity for you to examine the attorney.
Consider asking:
- How well do you know the kind of charge I am on?
- What is wrong with the prosecution’s case against him?
- What are my pressing deadlines or statutory/contractual obligations?
- Who will hear and settle?
- How are your fees calculated?
Having understandable answers helps you choose better.
Take Control of the Next Step
A criminal charge is not a conviction. But to ignore it only worsens a bad situation.
If you have been arrested, hiring a Sherman Oaks criminal defense lawyer can help you to clarify what the charges pertain to and begin protecting your legal rights while preparing for the next phase of the case. Good advice early on will give you a fuller view of your choices and put you in the arena where decisions are made based on facts rather than fear.