Articles

4 Things to Know Before Hiring a Lawyer

by Katie Gorden Internet Writer

When facing criminal charges, time is always of the essence. The sooner that you align yourself with a reputable attorney; the sooner things can start moving in the right direction. Before finding and hiring a lawyer, there are several things that you should know and do. The actions that you take early on can have a significant impact on your future.

1. You'll Need to Bring Your Attorney Up to Date Right Away

Once you've found the right North Carolina criminal defense attorneys for your case, you'll need to bring your legal team up to speed. Thus, even as you're shopping around for professionals to work with, start collecting the documents that you'll need to share. For instance, your lawyer should be given all documents that have been submitted to you by the court. These will detail your charges, and reveal the date of your next court appearance. If you've been bailed out or released on your own recognizance, bring all related bail papers and court documents. If a property search was conducted, all of the resulting paperwork should be shared as well. Your lawyer will also need a copy of the police report if this document is available and possible to access. If you cannot access the police report for your case, your attorney can collect this for you later on.

2. Every Conversation Matters, Both Online and Off

For criminal charge attorneys, the best clients are always tight-lipped. It's human nature to want to vent about the negative experiences in your life, but this is one time where talking is virtually guaranteed to work against you. Until you've had the chance to talk to and receive guidance from an attorney that you've hired, try to keep your thoughts and feelings to yourself as much as possible. This is true whether you are speaking with relatives or friends, making posts on social networking sites, or speaking with law enforcement agencies. The less that you say before having an attorney at the helm of your case; the easier it will be for this professional to help you get the outcome you want.

3. Protect Your Character

Avoid going out on wild outings to blow off steam. It's generally best for criminal case defendants to lead quiet, inconspicuous lives while waiting for their trials. Continue going to work or school, and continue caring for your loved ones. Do all that you can to avoid further altercations with the police and further criminal charges. Stay away from bars and other high-activity areas, and simply keep things calm and problem-free. Any altercations or infractions that come after your current charges can be effectively used by the prosecution to diminish your character.

4. Your Attorney Can Answer Questions for You or Help You Form Your Statements

If you feel like there are conversations that you should have with people about your case, ahead of or during your trial, wait to ask your attorney for guidance first. An attorney will tell you to avoid speaking with witnesses, claimants, and the press at all costs. When speaking with law enforcement agencies, even when under pressure, always defer to your right to an attorney, your right to remain silent, or the legal professional you've hired. If there's ever a time when speaking can actually benefit your case, your attorney can tell you exactly when and what to say.


When it comes to speaking with anyone but your attorney, less is always more. However, when providing your legal team with case details, always retain and share every case-related document you receive. Hiring an attorney and keeping this professional well-informed are among the best things that you can do to protect your freedom, your finances, and all other personal interests.



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About Katie Gorden Advanced   Internet Writer

5 connections, 3 recommendations, 104 honor points.
Joined APSense since, January 7th, 2020, From Eureka, CA, United States.

Created on Jul 2nd 2021 15:02. Viewed 257 times.

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