If you are in Washington and facing criminal charges, having all the information ready for your first visit to a criminal lawyer is a great first step.
Resources to Gather Before You Speak to a WA Criminal Lawyer
To help you prepare, here is a list of materials you will need to collect before you talk to a criminal lawyer in Washington:
1. Detailed Account of the Incident
Write down what you remember about what happened. Note the time and date of the incident, where it happened, and who was present.
Describe as much as you can, even if you think details are inconsequential. This helps your Snohomish criminal lawyer better understand what happened from your perspective.
2. Relevant Documents
Bring any paperwork from your hearing, including police reports, court summonses, bail paperwork, and copies of any correspondence you’ve received. If you’ve been charged, bring the charging documents with you.
3. Witness Information
Provide your lawyer with the names, contact information, and a description of what, if anything, any witnesses might have seen or heard. Witnesses can be an essential part of your defense.
4. Your Criminal History
Be upfront about your criminal record if you have one—tell your lawyer. They need to know about any prior convictions or pending criminal matters.
Your lawyer must also be prepared to counteract the prosecution’s use of your history against you.
5. Financial Information
You should expect to pay for legal defense, but talk to your lawyer about your budget beforehand.
Know what you can afford, and make sure the lawyer appreciates your income, expenses, and other resources relevant to what you can pay.
6. Questions and Concerns
Prepare a list of questions and concerns you have about your case.
For example, you might want to know what sort of outcome to expect in your case, whether the lawyer has handled cases like yours before, and how they plan to defend your case.
7. Communication Preferences
Decide how you want to communicate with your lawyer.
Do you want them to call regularly and leave messages? Do you prefer email? Or meeting in person?
Let your lawyer know your preferences so you can stay in touch in a way that works for you both.
Speak with a Washington Criminal Lawyer Now
Having these resources at your first meeting with a criminal lawyer in Washington will help you maximize your time with your criminal lawyer and get off on the right foot for a good defense.
Call Phil Wakefield of Snohomish Law Group today if you’re ready to speak or meet with a criminal lawyer in Washington. Book your free consultation now.
