what are good questions to ask an attorney to see if he is best fit for a child molestation charge

by Kiera Beatty 6 min read

What questions should I ask my family lawyer?

Apr 09, 2015 · Ask them. Lawyers should be as good at answering questions as they are at asking them. If a lawyer rushes you or makes you feel that your questions are naïve, you may need to keep looking. Taking the time to ask questions at the beginning will give you a much better chance of having a solid and successful attorney-client relationship.

What questions should I ask when hiring a criminal defense attorney?

Oct 11, 2016 · Keep in mind that there is a big difference between an attorney who guarantees an outcome and one who predicts what is likely to happen. Additionally, a good followup question would be to ask what is the best-case scenario and what is the worst-case scenario. 7. Did the Police Violate My Civil Rights?

Why ask questions about child abuse and neglect?

Jul 26, 2021 · Trial is not always the best way forward when it comes to domestic violence cases. In fact, there are often better alternatives for a false domestic violence case, such as plea bargains or diversion programs. Always ask your attorney if they see another scenario for your case that would be favorable to going to court. What fees can I expect?

Do lawyers like to do the questioning?

Dec 14, 2010 · DISCOVERY -- EVIDENCE -- INVESTIGATION. statements, video and audio tapes, photographs and other material provided through "discovery" by the Prosecutor? Has the attorney made copies of all of it and reviewed it with you? What is your attorney's evaluation of the evidence? What is the "worst evidence" against you? Has you attorney considered not only …

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What are some good questions to ask a lawyer?

Questions to Ask Your Lawyer During a Consultation1) What kind of experience do you have with similar cases?2) What would be your strategy for my case?3) Are there any alternatives to going to court?4) What are my possible outcomes?5) Who will actually handle my case?6) What is my role in my case?More items...•Jan 29, 2017

How long is a sentence for molestation?

Child Molestation Punishment and Sentence under California Penal Code 647.6 PC. If you are convicted of child molestation, you face a sentence of up to 364 days in jail or six years in prison. Your sentence may also include fines of up to $5,000, and you may be required to register as a sex offender.

What factors must you take into account regarding potential signs of abuse?

The following are characteristics of some people who abuse children.Low self-esteem.Poor control over their emotions.A history of being abused themselves.Stress.Financial problems.Social isolation.Relationship problems with a partner (may include domestic violence)Lack of parenting skills.More items...

What happens when someone is accused of molestation?

Concerns and Consequences A conviction for sexual contact with or sexual abuse of a minor has serious potential consequences. ... sentenced to time in jail or prison, including a potential life sentence in some states. placed on probation for an extended period, and. required to register as a sex offender.

What are the charges for molestation?

What is the punishment for molestation under Indian law? Molestation is punishable with a minimum of 1 year to a maximum of 5 years imprisonment and fine. COMPLAINT AGAINST MOLESTATION: Please see "What You Should Know About Sexual Harassment" and Police Complaint.

What are the 4 areas of abuse?

Identify the following actions under the following four main headings:Physical AbuseEmotional AbuseSexual AbuseA parent or carer fabricating the symptoms of, or deliberately inducing, illness in a childImposing expectations that are inappropriate to the development of the childMaking children watch sexual activities6 more rows

What are behavioral indicators of abuse?

Behavioral indicators of physical abuse include: Fear of going home. Extreme apprehensiveness or vigilance. Pronounced aggression or passivity.

What Behaviours Do you notice that alert you to the possibility of abuse?

What are the signs of child abuse?unexplained changes in behaviour or personality.becoming withdrawn.seeming anxious.becoming uncharacteristically aggressive.lacks social skills and has few friends, if any.poor bond or relationship with a parent.knowledge of adult issues inappropriate for their age.More items...

How do you defend yourself against accusations?

How to Defend Yourself Against False AccusationsStay Calm. ... Hire an Attorney to Help You Fight Back. ... Gather Evidence. ... Challenge the Accuser's Credibility. ... Find Your Own Witnesses and Present Evidence of Your Side of the Story. ... Develop a Strategy in Criminal Defense Cases.More items...

How can I prove my innocence when falsely accused?

Collect Evidence The only way to prove your innocence is by gathering evidence to counter these false allegations. You need to provide an alibi and give your lawyers' witnesses' names that may be able to prove your innocence, so they can interview them.Sep 8, 2021

What is considered molest?

Any sexual act, conduct, or indecent act that's intended to satisfy or arouse sexual desires of the adult or child, is considered molestation. The mens rea of molestation may be lascivious, lewd intent. A charge of molestation is typically considered as a more serious offense than statutory rape.Jun 14, 2017

What to tell your lawyer about your arrest?

Be prepared to tell your lawyer about any police interaction that you had prior to your arrest, during your arrest, and while you were detained. Providing your lawyer with a detailed account of your experience is very important because if the police violated your civil rights your lawyer may be able to get your charges dismissed, even if you are guilty. Therefore, it is a good idea to ask your lawyer during the initial consultation if they think that your civil rights were violated in any way.

What should an experienced criminal defense attorney do?

However, an experienced criminal defense attorney should be able to analyze your case, talk about the possible legal outcomes, and predict what is likely to happen in your case. Keep in mind that there is a big difference between an attorney who guarantees an outcome and one who predicts what is likely to happen.

Why is it important to retain a lawyer?

Apart from hiring a lawyer who is experienced, professional, and knowledgeable, it is also very important to retain a lawyer who you trust and have confidence in. By simply asking the attorney sitting across from you why you should hire them you are giving them a chance to sell themselves to you and hopefully their response will inspire confidence. It is very important that you have confidence in your attorney’s abilities and trust them because this will enable the two of you to work together to build the best legal defense possible.

Where is Lauren Taylor?

South Carolina divorce attorney Lauren Taylor practices family law in Charleston and Greenville. She graduated from the Charlotte School of Law, and has been practicing for more than ten years.

Can an attorney advise you not to speak to the press?

For example, your attorney may advise you not to speak to the press or to witnesses involved in your case. Following your attorney’s advice regarding these types of matters can make a big difference in your case. 3.

Can a criminal defense attorney take charge of a case?

Although your criminal defense attorney will take charge of your case, there are often actions that criminal defendants themselves can take in order to improve the outcome of their case. Each criminal case is unique and your lawyer will be able to make personalized recommendations to you, however, it may be beneficial to ask your lawyer ...

What to expect from an experienced attorney?

An experienced attorney can properly advise you on what to expect throughout all stages of the legal process. He or she will also have the ability to anticipate the strategies or actions of the prosecution and can use that to help build you a strong defense strategy.

What is the best way to defend a client in a criminal case?

When it comes to defending a client in a criminal case, experience is key. There are numerous benefits to having an attorney who has practiced for many years and successfully represented a large number of clients. An experienced attorney can properly advise you on what to expect throughout all stages of the legal process. He or she will also have the ability to anticipate the strategies or actions of the prosecution and can use that to help build you a strong defense strategy.

Why is it important to find an attorney?

It is not only important to find an attorney who has handled a good number of cases, but one who is knowledgeable about the charges you face as well. A lawyer who has had experience handling clients facing similar charges can save you a lot of time and money and most likely find you a better outcome overall.

How to settle a case out of court?

In many ways, the best outcome you can have for your case is one that comes quickly. By negotiating to settle out of court through a plea bargain, your attorney may be able to help you avoid having to appear in court and appear before a judge and jury.

Do attorneys delegate their work to other attorneys?

Oftentimes attorneys will delegate certain tasks involved in your case to other members of the legal team. This can be of benefit to you, as a junior associate’s hourly rate may be lower, which will save you having to pay a higher rate for your attorney to do the same task.

Can an attorney control the outcome of a case?

Just as with the outcome of a case, no attorney can control every aspect of the legal process or guarantee exactly how the case will play out. However, your attorney should be able to devise a clear defensive strategy and a plan for how to proceed with your case.

Can a lawyer guarantee a specific outcome?

No lawyer should guarantee a specific result for your case and you should be wary of any attorney who makes promises about what the exact outcome will be. However, an experienced and knowledgeable attorney should be able to evaluate the preliminary information they are given about your case and make an assessment as to how it may likely play out. It is also important to find what your attorney thinks are the strengths and weaknesses of your case which will shape the defense strategy that he or she will devise.

7 Questions to Ask Your Domestic Violence Attorney

When you find yourself in an unfavorable situation of facing unjust charges for domestic violence, it’s important to act quickly and hire an experienced domestic violence attorney in San Diego. Only a professional is able to adequately guide you through this process and help you prove your innocence.

What should I ask my domestic violence attorney?

You should definitely hire legal representation to help you fight back against unjust domestic violence charges. However, you should pay attention to the professional you choose and make sure you’re hiring the most qualified lawyer for your case.

Who is the most prominent domestic violence attorney in San Diego?

Domestic violence charges are tough on you and your entire family, especially if they’re untrue and you have to prove your innocence. That is why you should first learn more about the details of domestic violence charges and see what you can do to prepare for your hearing.

DISCOVERY -- EVIDENCE -- INVESTIGATION

DISCOVERY -- EVIDENCE -- INVESTIGATION#N#Has your lawyer obtained and reviewed all "Discovery", including: police reports, witness#N#statements, video and audio tapes, photographs and other material provided through "discovery" by the Prosecutor? Has the attorney made copies of all of it and reviewed it with you? What is your attorney's evaluation of the evidence? What is the "worst evidence" against you? Has you attorney considered not only what evidence is there, but what evidence is not there (missing)? What physical or testimony evidence does the prosecution rely on open to challenge? Or what evidence does the DA not have that could mean dismissal of your case? Are there eyewitnesses that should be interviewed? What sort of defense investigation should be conducted to find that evidence to disprove your guilt?.

CLIENT ACTIONS - What should you do?

CLIENT ACTIONS - What should you do?#N#Sometimes there are steps you can (and should) take which will dramatically lessen your sentence.

STRATEGY

STRATEGY#N#What is your lawyer's preliminary evaluation of the case against you? What defenses are available to you? What is the best defense strategy? What are the risks and benefits of strategy? Can your attorney mount a successful defense at trial or is it in your best interests to plea bargain?

COSTS

COSTS#N#How much defense investigation needs to be done, and what will it cost? Do you need to hire Expert Witnesses to testify for you at trial? How much will they cost? Is their testimony worth it? What is the time table preparing for trial; how long will the trial last and what will it cost?

SENTENCING ALTERNATIVES

SENTENCING ALTERNATIVES#N#Are there any Sentencing Alternatives to standard Jail that you may be eligible for, such as electronic home detention, Sheriff's Work Program, Work Furlough, or community service? Are there any standard or creative Probationary Terms that are preferable to you which will satisfy the prosecution and court's concerns and allow you to receive a lesser sentence, easier to accept? Some clients want to avoid fines, others want to keep their driver's license, others want to avoid jail, and others who are not citizens, just want to remain in the U.S.

MOTIONS -- Legal Defenses (Due Process and your constitutional rights

CONCLUSION This case is not just any case; it’s your case! You deserve the best defense from an attorney who considers all of these questions.

What is an attorney who can answer this question well?

An attorney who can answer this question well is an attorney who is attuned not only to the legal challenges at hand, but also to the way clients think about them. They’ve also likely worked with clients like you. They’ll be able to provide context upfront that answers your questions before you find yourself confused by a complex legal issue or legal language.

How many bills has Jerry Brown signed?

California Gov. Jerry Brown recently completed acting on the 1,217 bills that came across his desk this year. He has signed 1,016 of them into law, with the majority taking effect...

Do you want to hire an attorney who will challenge you?

While you don’t want to hire an attorney who will challenge your every move, you also definitely don’t want one who is so afraid of getting fired that they’re reluctant to question you when they have a legitimate concern.

Do attorneys have conflicts of interest?

Attorneys are responsible for divulging any potential conflicts of interest, even if they are never directly asked a question about them. However, it’s usually not a bad idea to inquire about them yourself.

Do businesspeople have to resign themselves to pick the first attorney on their resume?

The good news is that businesspeople definitely don’t have to resign themselves to picking the first attorney whose resume crosses their desk.

Can an attorney give an estimate of how long each phase of a project will take?

Although unexpected challenges sometimes arise and cause deadlines to be pushed back, attorneys should be able to give an estimate of how long each phase of the project will take. Make sure that these estimates seem reasonable and fit with the timeline that you have in mind.

Is it difficult to get a complete picture of someone's personality?

No matter who you’re interviewing, it’s difficult to gain a complete picture of someone’s capabilities and personality over the course of an interview. This difficulty is compounded when you’re someone without a legal background who’s interviewing an attorney.

Who is the attorney you speak to in your consultation?

The attorney you speak to in your consultation may be the person who is personally handling your case. However, some attorneys have a team who helps them with cases. For instance, a lawyer may enlist the assistance of paralegals to work on your case.

What are the areas of criminal law?

Unsurprisingly, there are various areas of criminal law, including domestic violence, sex crimes, theft, drug, and violent crimes, among many other areas. Before hiring a lawyer, make sure that they have the experience and expertise needed to defend the specific charge that you are facing. 3.

Can a criminal defense lawyer settle a case?

If the criminal defense lawyer regularly settles cases via plea bargain rather than trial, the lawyer may not have the appropriate experience to represent you in a trial.

Is a consultation free?

While the consultation is free, the services will absolutely cost you money. The attorney should be able to give you an estimate of how much it will cost to handle your case.

Can a lawyer assess a case?

While it’s not possible to fully assess your entire case in an initial consultation, a good lawyer should at least give you some insight into how they would handle your case so that you can make an informed decision about whether they are the right lawyer.

Do you want to hire the cheapest lawyer?

While you certainly do not want to simply hire the cheapest lawyer you can find, it is understandable that the vast majority of people do have to factor in price. It is best to be realistic about what you are able to afford so you don’t run into financial trouble down the road.

Do criminal defense attorneys charge hourly?

The majority of criminal defense attorneys charge flat fees rather than hourly rates. While this initially may sound more expensive to you, be aware that hourly fees can be deceiving. Under many hourly agreements, you are paying from every minute the layer spends thinking about your case, reading police reports, emailing, ...

Why is it important to have a lawyer for your family?

When it comes to retaining proper legal representation during a complicated family matter , it is important to ensure you find the right attorney to handle your type of case. Because there is a wide range of family law-related matters, such as divorce, child custody, child support, spousal support, parenting plan modifications, relocation, and more, it is crucial that you find a lawyer who has experience handling cases similar to yours.

How long does it take to get a response from an attorney?

For most people, it is most convenient to have a lawyer who can respond to their questions or concerns within a 24-hour period. It is best to understand your attorney’s policies before your case progresses. Also ask about how they prefer to communicate with their clients (email or phone, daily or weekly, or as needed, etc.). A good attorney will provide personalized attention, but also help you streamline your communications as to reduce your legal costs.

How many divorce cases have been handled by a family lawyer?

Although an attorney may have handled over 50 divorce cases, they may have only handled two cases involving complex spousal support matters. You should also ask how many cases like yours they’ve represented in a trial – especially if your case may be contentious or if the opposing party in your case is likely to be adversarial.

Do family lawyers have a team?

Many family lawyers will have a team when working on complex cases, such as support associates and paralegals. This can work in your benefit, as a team approach can save you money and be more responsive to the demands of your case.

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