Actions to Take During an Initial Meeting with a Criminal Attorney in Chicago
Being charged with a crime or associated with crime can have devastating consequences for an individual. A conviction can result in prison time, hefty fines, and hundreds of hours in community service. Simply being charged with a crime can result in loss of a good reputation, personal problems, and financial problems. Since the criminal justice system is complex and in depth, it’s advisable to visit a Criminal Attorney Chicago. Know the right actions to take to ensure a productive initial meeting that will lead to a positive outcome on your case.
When seeing a criminal attorney in Chicago for the first time, make the appointment during a time of day when you are most alert and not busy. Ensure that you don’t bring children to your meeting. It’s advisable to dress appropriately and use good personal hygiene. Simply put, make sure you are clean and dress in conservative, pressed clothing. These basic actions will help promote a good environment for the meeting.
Arrive about 15 minutes early for your appointment. It’s a good idea to have another person with you to write down information and to ask questions you may forget to ask. Be prepared to present all the information you have in a clear, concise manner. You can even practice this delivery before the meeting. While you don’t have to be friends with your lawyer, it’s preferable to develop a friendly, professional rapport. Be respectful and don’t get offended at questions the lawyer may pose. He will have to know details about your situation and your private life to defend you properly.
A lawyer will need to know your full legal name, address, place of employment and contact numbers. Have all this information on a separate sheet of paper. Even if you fill out a questionnaire, type all your information including the names and phone numbers of witnesses, details of the incident, and other people involved. Also, bring related documentation such as police reports, bail documentation, and arrest documentation.
The first meeting with a lawyer is the launch of your defense. By providing all necessary documentation and details related to the incident, a lawyer will have the information he needs to decide if he wants to take your case. Being prepared and showing interest in your case will yield a better chance of being represented by a competent lawyer. For more information, please Visit Site.
