subject: Prepare For The First Meeting With Criminal Defence Solicitors [print this page] Facing a criminal charge for even a minor criminal offence is a very intimidating and traumatic experience for the average person. Coupled with the very sombre atmosphere of the legal process and a complete lack of knowledge related to the criminal law procedures, the whole incident proves to be a nerve racking one. When circumstances lead one into such a situation, it is best to seek sound professional assistance from criminal defence solicitors. It is pertinent to note that the first meeting with ones' lawyer may prove to a little embarrassing, as one is not very comfortable with confessing and discussing a crime or offence that one has been charged with having committed. It is therefore very important that one feels comfortable during this first meeting and is relaxed, as the first meeting itself sets the tone for the future relationship between the client and the lawyer and it is going to last right up to the disposal of the case in a court of law.
The spade work begins by the process one initiates to find criminal defence solicitors to represent the case. It is highly recommended to browse through the internet and look for a reputable law concern that has a separate section dealing with the type of charge one is faced with. Most of these firms have an online questionnaire, which when filled by the client gives the outline of the case to the lawyer who comes to meet you and he is better prepared. The very first thing that your lawyer would be interested in understanding is your version of events leading to the charge and your requirements of them. To prevent dilution of facts, it is a wise thing to prepare a written record of this as early as possible after being charged and refer to it during the first meeting. This may just give the lawyer that vital fact in your case that may make all the difference in the defence, though it may seem insignificant to you at the time.
Another important facet is to provide them with all the documents related to your offence and the charge. These would include the 'Statement of Charge' given to you by the court, court order giving out the next date for appearance in the court, the papers given to you by the police if any, and the bond paper. You may not be in the possession of the police report, but if you do have its copy, it too should be given to the lawyer. Any other paperwork associated with the offence or which they may ask for should be provided to the lawyer.
To develop the relationship, you must ask them about their experience in handling similar cases, the rates and payment options and their past record of successful defence. Thereafter the meeting must progress towards discussion of your case. Ask them for their views on the process of trial, your options, problems that they foresee during the trial and what strategy to follow for a successful defence.
