Being charged with a crime of any kind can be terrifying but remaining calm and clear-headed will help you make the best of the situation. Here’s what to do if you or someone you love is charged with a crime in Los Angeles:
Who to Call
As soon as you are arrested and charged with a crime, contact or have a loved one call a Los Angeles criminal attorney on your behalf. Offer the attorney as many details as possible at the time of your first call so they can give you a solid answer on whether they can represent you or not. Remain calm, be honest, and listen to the advice they offer. They will be your best counselor, moving forward.
What to Bring
When you head to your local criminal attorney’s office for your first consultation, you should bring the following documentation:
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Your identification
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Bail paperwork, if applicable
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A copy of any police reports relating to your case
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Copies of any property search and seizure documentation relevant to your case
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Any other paperwork was given to you by law enforcement relating to your arrest, charge, or overall case
This paperwork will help your criminal attorney offer you accurate advice.
What to Ask
You will undoubtedly have many questions you’d like to have answered while dealing with a criminal charge and addressing them all can be time-consuming and overwhelming. However, these are a few questions you absolutely must have answered before proceeding with your chosen attorney:
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Will you or someone else represent me? Some lawyers work with a team, while others work alone. Ask to meet whoever will be representing you before your day in court.
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What are your fees? Are they flat or hourly? When will payment be expected? What happens regarding payment in the event of an unfavorable verdict?
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What is your initial reaction or recommendation? How should we proceed from here?
Being upfront with your questions will help your lawyer give you the kind of meaningful advice that will help you navigate the litigation process and keep your sanity intact.
