If you have been charged with assault, you are definitely not alone. According to Statista, there were over 900,000 reported cases of aggravated assault in the United States in 2021. Hiring an assault attorney to defend you against the charges you are facing can be extremely beneficial. During your initial consultation, it’s essential to ask the right questions to be properly informed about your case. Here are three important things to ask.
1. How Do You Charge Your Clients?
One of the first questions that you want to ask when you are looking to hire an assault attorney is how they charge their clients. Most criminal defense attorneys charge by the hour, but there are some that charge a flat rate. Ask the attorney about their methods and for an estimate of how much you may expect to pay so you can budget accordingly.
2. What Defenses Will You Use for My Case?
Another important question to ask your attorney is what defenses they intend to use for your case. There are many defenses that can be raised for an assault case, including self-defense, consent, mental impairment, or mistaken identity. However, some won’t be applicable to your circumstances. A great attorney can let you know what they have in mind and why they feel that that is the best defense for your needs.
3. Will You Push for a Plea Deal or Trial?
The final question that you should ask an assault attorney is whether they will push for a plea deal or a trial. There is no wrong or right answer to this question, but the answer the attorney gives should match what you are hoping for. If you know you are guilty or just want to resolve the case quickly, you may be looking for an attorney to negotiate a fair plea deal. If you know you are innocent, you may want an attorney who is willing to take your case to trial.
No one wants to find themselves on the wrong side of the law. However, a professional can help if you are in this situation. If you have been charged with assault, an assault attorney can help to defend you against the charges you are facing. Reach out to us at The Law Office of Nick L. Olguin to find out more about the specific ways we can assist you with your case.
