If you have been charged with a crime, there has never been a time in your life when it was more important to keep your wits about you and to make calculated and intelligent decisions. Depending upon the charges that have been brought against you, you could be looking at fines, imprisonment, the loss of your freedom, the resulting harm this could cause for your family and a permanent record. People with records find it much more difficult than the average person to secure employment. Therefore, no matter how you ended up in this situation, you need to let logic prevail, quell any emotional reactions and not make any knee-jerk decisions.
The first thing you should do is consult with a Montgomery County Criminal Lawyer. You can get listings of attorneys from the state’s bar association. You can also seek referrals from family and friends. If all else fails, go to court for a few days and watch the proceedings until you find an attorney whose style you like, and ask for his card.
Most (but not all) criminal attorneys give free consultations, which should help you better assess the circumstances you’re in and to have a better idea of what your rights and options are. When you consult with an attorney, be sure to take paper and pencil with you so you can take notes. Make a list beforehand of any and all questions you might have. Make sure that the attorney explains to you (if you do not already understand it) how the legal system works, any confusing terminology, and what he thinks is your best strategy based on the facts of the case.
Sometimes, it is a good idea to consult with more than one attorney. If you have questions still, after having met with one, take your new understanding and your new questions to a new attorney. Meet with as many as you feel necessary until you find an attorney with whom you feel the most trust, respect, and rapport.
Even if you’re an attorney yourself and well versed in the law, it’s still a good idea to hire an attorney to represent you in your trial. It is extremely difficult for someone on trial to maintain the required objectivity to represent himself. Your life, your freedom, and your money are at stake. Don’t go it alone. Hire an attorney to be your advocate in court.
