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Being charged with a crime, even a misdemeanor charge or a traffic offense can lead to some serious consequences regarding the sentence you receive and your life in general. Even if you truly are guilty of the crime, there may be defenses that come mean a sentencing reduction, or the charges against you been dropped. You should do everything that you can to help minimize the potential negative outcomes of your arrest.
But, how do you do this? One way is to make sure you assist your criminal defense attorney as they defend you.
How You Can Help Your Criminal Defense Attorney With Your Defense
Without your cooperation, even the most experienced defense attorney won’t be able to successfully defend you. You should see your attorney as a team member, there are many things you can do to help them at their job. Don’t make their job harder by making mistakes and not the following advice. If you want a good outcome from your case, have a look at some of these guidelines:
Talk About Your Goals
As your attorney starts the investigation on your case, they will keep you informed about possible outcomes. You need to be clear on your goals, and let them know what would be acceptable. So, if you are willing to accept a plea agreement, then you need to make sure they know this. If you let your attorney know your goals, they will be able to shape your defense and work towards getting an outcome that you are willing to accept.
Talk About The Cost
Hiring an investigator, experts, and taking depositions are going to cost both time and money. Yes, you want the best possible defense, but you also need to be realistic about what is affordable. Make sure you communicate this with your attorney.
Be 100% Honest
Honesty is definitely the best policy when dealing with an attorney. You want them to be able to prepare the best defense for you, so they need to know it all. Answer all questions truthfully and in as much detail as possible. You will be protected by attorney-client privilege, they also have the duty to fight your charges. You don’t want them to find out any nasty surprises so tell them everything from the very start.
Provide Information Quickly
If your attorney asks you for information for anything in relation to the case, such as contact details for a witness. Make sure you provide these with haste and don’t delay.
Be On Time For All Appointments And Hearings
It’s imperative that you are always on time for any appointments or court hearings you are due to attend. Plan to be early if you are worried you can’t achieve this.
Be Respectful And Dress Appropriately
It’s important for you to be presentable and to do this you need to dress appropriately and be respectful. You want to make a good impression on the judge when you attend court hearings. Dress as if you are going to a job interview. If you’re unsure what to wear speak to your attorney for advice.
If you’ve been accused of a crime, the most important thing you can do is to work closely with your attorney, they are there to support through this difficult time.
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