Facing criminal charges can be overwhelming. If you’re meeting with a criminal defense firm for the first time, you may be wondering what to expect and how to prepare. At Just Criminal Law, we want you to feel informed and confident from the very beginning.
Who You’ll Meet With First
Unlike some firms where you might immediately sit down with an attorney, your first meeting at Just Criminal Law will typically be with our full-time criminal investigator. This is an advantage because our attorneys are actively working on current client cases in court, with prosecutors, and in negotiations—meaning they are fully dedicated to those clients’ defense.
By starting with our investigator, you’ll get immediate support from someone trained to gather facts, preserve evidence, and begin building the foundation of your defense. It’s also a sign that we approach every case as a team effort.
What to Bring to Your First Meeting
To make the most of your consultation, we recommend bringing any documents connected to your case, such as:
- Court papers, tickets, or charging documents
- Felony information or warrants served during your arrest
- Bond paperwork
- Any other notices you received from the court
It’s also helpful to write down what happened as soon as possible after your arrest. Memories fade quickly, and keeping a timeline of events ensures important details aren’t lost. Bring this timeline, along with a list of questions you’d like answered.
What Happens During the Meeting
At this first meeting, our investigator will:
- Learn about your case and gather background information
- Discuss what evidence should be preserved right away
- Help you understand the charges and potential consequences
- Explain how Just Criminal Law may be able to represent you
This is also your chance to decide if we’re the right fit for you. Just as we’re evaluating whether your case is one we can take on, you’re determining whether you feel confident in our team.
Next Steps After the Meeting
If both you and our team agree to move forward, our investigator will go over:
- Legal fees and payment options
- What happens once you hire Just Criminal Law
- The immediate steps to protect your rights and prepare for court
Once retained, you’ll sign a service agreement that clearly outlines what we’ll do for you and what you can expect from us. From that point forward, you’ll have a dedicated team—including attorneys and our investigator—working to protect your future.