You should retain an attorney as soon as you have been charged with a crime. Criminal charges can lead to fines, jail time, and the loss of important rights. An experienced lawyer can protect you early on and help you avoid serious collateral consequences.
No. Once an arrest is made, it is the prosecutor, not the victim, who decides whether to drop the charges. Even if the victim no longer wishes to move forward, the case can still be prosecuted. Evidence such as a 911 call or other statements may be used in court even without the victim’s participation. It is important to have an experienced attorney who understands the rules of evidence and can protect your rights.
Yes. A criminal conviction can carry serious and long-lasting consequences. It is important to have an experienced attorney who can explain your options and help you protect your rights and your future.
No. A Continuance Without a Finding is an admission that if the case went to trial, there would be a good chance you would be found guilty based on the facts. It is not an admission of guilt. You will be placed on a period of probation, and the case is ultimately dismissed if you successfully complete probation. While it is generally not a conviction, a CWOF can still have important legal consequences. It is important to have an experienced attorney to explain these potential impacts and guide you through the process.
A criminal case can be resolved in as little as one month, but some cases may take years. Many clients wonder why their case is taking so long to reach trial. Trials can be continued multiple times, and courts prioritize certain cases, such as older cases, those involving out-of-state experts, or custody matters, over others. The timing is entirely at the judge’s discretion. While this can be frustrating, no attorney can control how long a case will take.
No. You should never answer questions from the police without an attorney present.
It is your decision whether to testify at trial, not your attorney’s. Your attorney can advise you and provide guidance, but only you can choose whether to take the stand.
Every case is different. Initial consultations are always free, and we never take a case without first agreeing on the cost. The total cost can vary depending on the court, the prosecutor’s office, the judge, and the complexity of the case. An experienced attorney can provide an estimate based on the anticipated number of court appearances and the work required.
A retainer is required but in most cases a payment plan can be arranged. For your convenience Visa, MasterCard, Venmo, CashApp, Zelle, check, and cash are all accepted.