Hi, my name is Kirsten Krueger and two years ago, I was in a car accident. I was stopped at a stop sign when the driver behind me slammed into my car. Due to my injuries, I had to spend a few days in the hospital and I was unable to work for two months. My medical care was expensive and without being able to work, I couldn't pay my bills. The car accident was stressful enough and then I had to worry about how I would pay my bills. After speaking with a car accident lawyer, it wasn't long before I was compensated for my medical bills and lost wages from work. I'm writing this blog to help others who have been a car accident and haven't received any compensation. As you read my posts, you'll learn how an attorney can help you if you're in a vehicle accident.
If you have been charged with a crime and may be headed to court, becoming close with your attorney is important. Making sure that some basic discussions occur with your lawyer will get you started on the right track. Here are four things that you need to discuss with your criminal attorney to help the outcome of your case.
1. Set Communication Guidelines
If you have gotten to the point where you need a criminal attorney, you are probably going to be in a stressful situation. Working well with your attorney is important, so make sure that you have a prompt discussion on communication and what to expect. Are there certain times of day that are better to communicate? Are calls and texts okay? Should you always go through their law office or assistant? These are things that need to be hashed out so that you can both understand expectations.
2. Define Your Defense Goals
Whether you are hoping to plead down to a lesser charge or fight a charge completely, your lawyer needs to know your game plan. You should listen to the pros and cons if your lawyer has input. If, in the end, you have a strong opinion on how you want your lawyer to defend your case, make sure that they understand this clearly.
3. Discuss Any Prior Arrests on Your Record
If you have a criminal past, this will come up in your case. The prosecution will be looking for this kind of information, so be sure that your lawyer is prepared. Your lawyer needs to be ready to defend anything that comes at them and not be caught off guard. Don't be embarrassed of your criminal record or try to hide it. It will come out in court, so discuss with your lawyer.
4. Make Sure You Understand Your Payment Schedule
If you have recently hired a new criminal attorney, make sure that you have worked out how they expect payment. Hiring a lawyer for a criminal case might be a necessity, but you also need to be honest and open about your finances. If you need to work out a different arrangement, talk with your lawyer about this and do not agree to something that you are unsure that you can live up to.
If you have just started working with your criminal attorney, make sure that your bases are covered and that communication lines are open. Trusting your attorney and being upfront about issues will bring clarity to your relationship and ultimately help your case. For more information, contact a firm like Dimeo Law Offices.
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