How Does the Attorney-Client Relationship Work in Criminal Cases?

Getting charged with a crime is an upsetting experience. The consequences of a conviction can affect your future and your ability to work. Depending on the circumstances of a criminal offense, you could also lose your freedom for a significant amount of time. Hiring a criminal defense attorney can prevent the worst-case scenario from taking place.

The dismissal of your charges is unlikely if you don’t have an attorney prepare a solid defense for your criminal case. At Chicago Trusted Attorneys®, we know how important an attorney-client relationship is, and we’re here to show you what you should expect from that relationship. 

Building Your Relationship on Trust

Trust is the most important factor in the attorney-client relationship, and it must be established during initial consultations. An attorney should answer all your questions and clear your doubts so that you know your future and your record are in good hands. You must work with someone who won’t talk about this confidential information provided to anyone else but you.

The relationship goes both ways. While your attorney needs to prove that they have your best interests at heart, you also need to reassure them you’ll work together and won’t make irrational decisions without hearing their advice. If trust is absent, preparing an effective defense can quickly become impossible. 

Honesty in a Criminal Case 

A defense lawyer is not there to judge you. Their only objective is to protect your rights and your freedom, which is why you should be honest during initial consultations. Don’t omit important information when you’re describing what happened, and be sure to inform them if you think you’ll be found guilty, so they know where to start when handling your charges.

Being aware of the facts that led to you the charges or false accusations you’re now facing can be the key to diminishing or dropping your charges. In certain instances where proving your innocence becomes impossible, your attorney can inform you of your best options for a plea and use evidence to look for a more lenient sentence. 

Availability of Services

A stable attorney-client relationship means communicating in a manner that leaves you satisfied. Your lawyer should inform you as soon as possible about the best way to get in touch. Your attorney should also never leave you in the dark while you’re wondering what’s going on with your case. 

They should be available every time you want to ask additional questions and inform you of changes and updates regarding your case. Knowing how they operate and what’s the next step to consider can help you stay calm in a difficult situation. 

Clear Fees

If you want to avoid problems in the future, you should always work with a lawyer to choose a payment plan that works for your financial situation. Defense lawyers understand you’re facing severe legal penalties for your criminal defense case, which means you may be in financial straits. 

Because of this, a healthy client-attorney relationship starts with an understanding of what you owe for their services. Luckily, your lawyer is willing to discuss your fees and how you can pay for their services. 

A Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help You

If you’ve been arrested and charged with a crime, representing yourself while you’re under pressure could mean jail time and expensive fines. Hiring an attorney and establishing a strong relationship can protect you from consequences that could ruin your life even after your sentence is over. 

A lawyer from Chicago Trusted Attorneys® can help you overcome the difficulties that come with an unexpected criminal charge. We’ll examine all evidence and work towards the best outcome for your case. All you need to get started is a call at 312-519-3171, You can also fill out the online form, and we’ll get back to you immediately.