Hiring a criminal attorney can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re facing the stress of legal issues. But the process doesn’t have to be complicated or intimidating. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what you can expect when hiring a criminal attorney, so you can focus on getting the right legal help and moving forward.
The first step is simple—pick up the phone and set up a consultation. This is your opportunity to discuss your case with the attorney, explain the situation, and provide any details that will help them understand the charges you’re facing. A good criminal attorney will ask you specific questions to get the full picture of your case. This allows them to determine if it falls within their area of expertise and if they are the right fit to handle your case.
Once the attorney understands the scope of your case, you’ll move on to discussing the financial side. This is where it’s important to have an open conversation. Your attorney will present their pricing structure clearly, explaining the cost of their services and what it includes. At this point, you’ll also discuss payment options. Many law firms, including ours, offer flexible payment plans to accommodate clients’ financial situations, so you won’t be burdened with unexpected costs. Once you’ve agreed on the cost and payment plan, the attorney will send over a retainer agreement, which formalizes the agreement and outlines the scope of services provided.
After the retainer is paid or the payment plan is set, your attorney will officially enter their appearance in your case. This means they are now your legal representative and can take the necessary legal actions on your behalf. From this point, your attorney will begin working on the case—investigating the details, gathering evidence, communicating with the prosecution, and formulating a strategy to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
Throughout the process, your attorney’s goal is to make sure you’re informed, prepared, and confident. Whether that means negotiating a plea deal, filing motions to dismiss the charges, or taking the case to trial, they will guide you through the steps. Their expertise is crucial, as they’ll handle the complexities of the legal system and work tirelessly to advocate for your best interests.
And remember, while it’s important to be kept in the loop, it’s also important to understand that your attorney doesn’t need to contact you every single second. There’s a lot that happens behind the scenes. Attorneys are experienced professionals who handle things efficiently, and often, this means working on your case without constant communication. Rest assured, your attorney is managing the case diligently, focusing on the critical elements that will make a difference for you. For more on why communication isn’t constant but still effective, check out our other blog on nlopezesq.com. (https://nlopezesq.com/behind-
Ready to take the first step in securing your future? Contact Natalie Lopez, Attorney at Law, P.A. (https://nlopezesq.com/
