Don’t feel bad if you don’t know what to expect when meeting with a criminal defense attorney for the first time. That’s probably not something you’ve spent your whole life preparing for (at least, hopefully not!). We know firsthand that navigating the legal process can be time-consuming and nerve-wracking, especially when you’re not sure what comes next. Fortunately, you don’t have to walk into your first meeting knowing all the answers. Find out what to expect when partnering with a Wichita defense attorney, according to our team at the McConnell Law Firm.
How To Prepare
It’s no secret that criminal defense attorneys are notoriously busy, so you’ll want to make the most of the time you have together, even if it’s your first introductory meeting. Just because you don’t know exactly what to expect doesn’t mean you can’t come prepared!
Before your consultation, take some time to familiarize yourself with the charges against you and think through the circumstances surrounding your case. It can also be helpful to refresh your memory about any previous involvement you’ve had with the legal system, including prior arrests, charges, diversions, or convictions—your attorney will want to know about your previous history.
What NOT To Do: Don’t intentionally leave out information because you’re worried about how it might sound. Your attorney is there to understand the facts of your case and help you determine the best path forward. The more context you can provide from the beginning, the more productive that first conversation can be.
Questions To Ask
Your attorney will likely have plenty of questions for you, but don’t forget that the initial conversation goes both ways. This is also your opportunity to learn more about the attorney, their experience, and what you can expect if you decide to work together. Consider preparing a list of questions, which may include:
- Have you handled cases involving charges similar to mine?
- What are the possible outcomes in my case?
- What should I expect from the legal process moving forward?
- Is there anything I should or shouldn’t do while my case is pending?
- How will we communicate about updates to my case?
- Who should I contact if I have questions?
- How do your fees and payment options work?
Remember, experience isn’t the only thing that matters when choosing your attorney. You may be working closely with your criminal defense attorney during an incredibly stressful period of your life. Pay attention to how clearly they explain things, whether they take the time to answer your questions, and whether you feel comfortable being open and honest with them.
Materials To Bring
You don’t need to show up to your first meeting with a perfectly organized case file, but you should bring any documents or information you already have that may help your attorney understand your situation. When in doubt, bring it with you. Depending on your case, this could include:
- Charging documents, citations, or other court paperwork
- Bond or bail paperwork
- Police reports, if you have access to them
- Notices or correspondence you’ve received related to your case
- Information about upcoming court dates
- Relevant photos, videos, text messages, emails, or other communications
- Contact information for potential witnesses
What NOT To Do: Don’t alter, delete, or dispose of information because you think it could hurt your case. Instead, talk to your attorney about what you have and let them advise you on how it should be handled.
The Initial Consultation
You’ve prepared, gathered your materials, and written down your questions. Now what? Your initial consultation is your first opportunity to sit down with a defense lawyer, discuss your situation, and get a better idea of what your next steps could look like. At the McConnell Law Firm, however, there are a couple of steps we’ll take before that first meeting.
Introductory Phone Call
The process begins with a free introductory phone call with one of our receptionists or legal assistants. This conversation typically takes about 30 minutes and gives us an opportunity to gather some basic information about your case. Because not every attorney handles every type of legal matter, we’ll also determine whether your case falls within the areas of criminal defense our firm practices. If it doesn’t, we’ll do our best to refer you to a firm that may be able to help.
Information-Gathering
From there, we may ask you to gather additional information that can help our team better understand and research your situation. Then, you can request to speak with a criminal defense attorney for a free consultation, which usually takes place by phone.
Attorney Consultation
This is where all that preparation comes in handy. During your consultation, our Wichita defense attorney will talk through your situation, share their initial analysis, recommend next steps, and let you know if we need anything else from you. It’s also your chance to ask those questions you prepared and get a feel for whether the attorney is the right fit for you.
Have You Been Accused?
Are you facing criminal charges? We encourage you to contact the McConnell Law Firm as soon as possible. While every case is different, and no conclusions should be drawn without first consulting a Wichita defense attorney about the specifics of your case, it is always in your best interest to have a skilled attorney by your side from the beginning.
