If you are asking yourself, "What should I expect at my first meeting with a San Diego criminal attorney?", you are not alone. Many people feel nervous or unsure when they meet a lawyer for the first time, especially if it is about something as serious as a criminal charge. The good news is that knowing what usually happens can help you feel calmer and more prepared. In this article, we will walk you through the process step by step so you know exactly what to expect.
1. A Warm Welcome and Introduction
When you arrive at the office, you will usually be greeted by a receptionist or assistant. They may ask you to sign in or fill out some basic forms. These forms may include your contact information, details about your case, and any documents the lawyer may need to see.
After this, you will meet the attorney. They will likely start by introducing themselves, explaining their background, and describing how they usually handle cases. This is your chance to get a first impression of how they communicate and whether you feel comfortable talking to them.
2. Talking About Your Case
One of the main parts of the first meeting is explaining your situation. The attorney will ask you to tell your side of the story. They will want to know:
- What happened during the incident?
- Were there any witnesses?
- Did the police talk to you or arrest you?
- Do you have any paperwork, such as tickets, court notices, or bail documents?
Be honest and share as many details as you can. Even small things may be important. Remember, your lawyer is there to help you, not to judge you. Everything you say is private and protected by attorney-client privilege. This means your lawyer cannot share your information with anyone without your permission.
3. Questions the Lawyer Might Ask
The attorney may ask questions to better understand your case. Some common questions include:
- Do you have a prior criminal record?
- Were there other people involved in the incident?
- Did the police say or do anything unusual?
- Did you make any statements to the police?
The lawyer asks these questions to find out what evidence may exist, what the police know, and what the best defense might be.
4. Questions You Should Ask the Lawyer
Your first meeting is not only about the attorney learning about you. It is also your chance to learn about them. You should feel free to ask:
- How much experience do you have with cases like mine?
- What are the possible outcomes of my case?
- How do you usually defend clients in situations like this?
- How often will we meet or talk?
- What will your fees be, and are payment plans available?
These questions will help you decide if this attorney is the right person to represent you.
5. Talking About Legal Fees
One of the most important parts of your first meeting is money. Lawyers in San Diego usually charge in two ways:
- Flat Fee – A set price for the whole case. This is common for smaller cases like misdemeanors or first-time DUI charges. The price can range from $1,000 to $5,000 depending on the case.
- Hourly Rate – The lawyer charges for every hour they work on your case. In San Diego, this is often $250 to $500 per hour, but top lawyers may charge more.
There may also be extra costs, such as:
- Court filing fees
- Expert witnesses
- Investigators
- Document fees
Be sure to ask your attorney to explain all possible costs clearly.
6. Case Evaluation
After hearing your story and looking at your documents, the lawyer will explain how strong your case is. They may point out possible defenses, weaknesses in the prosecutor's case, and the different paths you can take.
For example, they might say:
- You have a good chance of getting the case dismissed.
- You might be able to get a lighter sentence with a plea deal.
- If your case goes to trial, here's what you can expect.
This is also the time when the lawyer may ask you what your goals are. Do you want to fight the charges at trial? Are you open to a plea deal? Your answers will help guide their strategy.
7. Building Trust and Comfort
The first meeting is also about building trust. A criminal case can be scary, and you need a lawyer you can trust with your future. Pay attention to how the attorney talks to you. Do they listen carefully? Do they explain things in a way you can understand? Do you feel comfortable being honest with them?
If the answer is "yes," that is a good sign. If not, you may want to meet with another lawyer until you find someone who makes you feel more at ease.
8. Next Steps After the Meeting
At the end of your first meeting, the lawyer will likely give you a plan. This may include:
- What documents or evidence you should collect.
- Dates of upcoming court hearings.
- How to stay in touch with them.
- What you should or should not do while your case is pending.
If you decide to hire them, you will usually sign an agreement and pay either a deposit or the full fee, depending on what you discussed.
9. How to Prepare for Your First Meeting
To make the most of your first meeting, it helps to be prepared. Here are some simple steps:
- Bring documents: police reports, bail papers, court notices, or any evidence you have.
- Write down your story: so you don't forget important details.
- Make a list of questions: about your case, the lawyer's experience, and the cost.
- Be honest: hiding information can hurt your case later.
- Bring a notebook: so you can write down what the lawyer says.
Final Thoughts
Meeting a criminal defense lawyer for the first time can feel scary, but remember — they are there to help you. When you ask, "What should I expect at my first meeting with a San Diego criminal attorney?", the answer is simple: expect to talk openly, share details about your case, learn about your options, and understand the costs.
This meeting is your chance to find the right lawyer, ask questions, and start building a strong defense. Whether you hire a private attorney, choose Sevens Legal APC, or work with a public defender, the most important thing is to have someone who understands the law and is ready to stand by your side.