Yes. Whether you have already been formally charged with a crime or you think criminal charges are forthcoming, contacting a criminal defense lawyer is one of the best things you can do to protect your rights.
How a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help You Now
When you have an experienced criminal defense attorney involved in your case early on, you can:
- Develop a defense strategy. Beginning at your first free consultation and continuing throughout your case, I will create a strategic plan for successfully handling your case to meet your goals and expectations.
- Get advice about how to avoid mistakes. I encourage you not to talk with investigators, prosecutors, or anyone else without an attorney present.
- Begin an investigation early. The sooner an investigation starts, the more likely it is that evidence will be available. If there are evidence and witnesses that are good for your case, my job is to find those witnesses, interview those witnesses, and preserve that evidence for you before it disappears forever. Maybe it’s tracking down surveillance videos from businesses or video from the neighbor’s video doorbell. Sometimes my job is to call the investigator to learn about the available evidence. Remember, we aren’t entitled to the State’s evidence until after you’ve been indicted, and we’ve opted in for what’s called “discovery.” If you wait for your case to be indicted, which can take anywhere from two weeks (Atlanta) to four years, then you’re probably going to be too late and that evidence is going to be gone forever.
- Start discussions with the government in a way that allows you to control the narrative. You may have made a bad choice but not committed a crime. For example, you may have been in the wrong place at the wrong time or hanging out with the wrong people. It may be possible to take steps to mitigate your situation, improve your position, and portray you in the best light to secure the fairest outcome.
- Deal with the consequences of your arrest. Depending on the nature of your arrest, I may be able to help you preserve your right to drive, get you out on bail, recommend a good bail bondsman, or help you keep your job.
Contact an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney
Today is the day to make the call. Let’s talk about how I can help you stay in control of your life by outlining a legal strategy, protecting your rights, and fighting for you. Call or complete my online contact form today to schedule your free consultation.