Meeting with a criminal defense attorney for the first time can be intimidating. Knowing what to expect will help you relax and help both you and your attorney get the most out of this time together. At your first meeting with a criminal defense attorney, you can expect to:

Discuss the circumstances of your arrest: What happened? Who was there? What did the police do or say? What did you do and say? Etc.

Field-specific questions about the officers' conduct that might support a motion to suppress, e.g.:

• Were you handcuffed?
• Were you placed in a squad car?
• Did you say anything to the officers before your arrest? Did you say anything after you were placed under arrest?
• Where did the search take place – your car, your home or the surrounding area, your business, a public parking lot?
• Did the officers have a warrant? Did you read it?
• Did the officers ask for permission to search? What words did they use?
• Did you consent to a search? What words did you use? Did someone else consent?
• What was the nature and extent of the search? Were you frisked? Did they search the interior of the car? Did they search every room in the house? Did they open any boxes, bags, or other “containers,” e.g., a purse, backpack, or luggage?
• What items, if any, were seized? For example, did the police take your briefcase, your safe, or your computer?

Share everything you know about the circumstances leading to and surrounding your arrest and the charges against you.

Withholding information from your attorney or giving misinformation may hurt your defense, as it may blindside your attorney at a later date and negatively affect your defense strategy. Remember, your attorney has a professional responsibility to keep all your discussions confidential, so don't hold back.

Discuss your concerns, including how a conviction or incarceration may affect you or your family, and what your possible exposure is.

Discuss the cost of representation, payment plans, etc.

We are available to meet with you at your convenience. When you are ready to discuss your case with an experienced, knowledgeable, and compassionate criminal defense attorney, please call us., payment plans, etc.