Let’s be honest: when you start looking for a lawyer, the questions can feel endless. How much is this going to cost? What should I even ask during a consultation? How can I tell if an attorney is the right fit for my case? The uncertainty alone is stressful. We created this guide to give you clear, straightforward answers. We’ll break down legal fees, provide a checklist of essential questions, and explain what you can expect from the legal process. Our goal is to demystify the experience of hiring a Tempe criminal defense attorney so you can move forward with clarity and confidence, knowing you’ve made an informed choice.
Key Takeaways
- Invest in Your Future, Not Just Your Defense: A criminal conviction carries lifelong consequences for your career, housing, and finances. Hiring the right attorney isn’t an admission of guilt—it’s a critical step to protect your rights and future opportunities from long-term damage.
- Choose a Strategist, Not Just a Lawyer: The best attorney for you has specific experience with cases like yours, knows the local courts, and communicates clearly. Interview several candidates to find a legal partner you trust to build a proactive defense strategy.
- Be an Active Partner in Your Own Defense: Your attorney can’t build the strongest case without you. Your role is to be completely honest, stay organized with your documents, and ask questions to ensure you and your lawyer are working toward the same goal.
Why Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney?
Facing a criminal charge is overwhelming. Your mind is likely racing with questions about what happens next and what this means for your future. It’s tempting to think you can handle it alone, especially if you believe you’re innocent. But the legal system is incredibly complex, and going it alone puts everything you care about at risk. Having a skilled professional in your corner isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential for protecting your rights and your future. An experienced attorney can gather evidence, build a strong defense strategy, and ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal process.
Know Your Legal Rights
From the moment you are questioned or arrested, you have specific rights. The thing is, it’s hard to assert rights you don’t fully understand. A criminal defense attorney does more than just show up to court; they act as your shield and your guide. They ensure law enforcement follows proper procedure, analyze the evidence against you, and build a defense strategy tailored to your situation. An experienced lawyer understands the Arizona Rules of Criminal Procedure inside and out, giving you the best possible chance at a favorable outcome.
Common Myths About Legal Defense
There are a lot of misconceptions out there that can stop people from getting the help they need. One of the biggest is the idea that hiring an attorney makes you look guilty. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Hiring a defense lawyer doesn’t mean you’re guilty—it means you value your freedom and your future. Another common myth is that you don’t need a lawyer if you’re innocent. Unfortunately, innocence alone doesn’t guarantee a win in court. A strong defense is required to present the facts clearly and challenge the prosecution’s case.
What’s at Stake with a Criminal Charge?
It’s easy to underestimate the impact of a criminal charge. You might think a misdemeanor is “no big deal,” but any conviction can have lasting consequences. A permanent criminal record can create serious hurdles for the rest of your life, affecting your ability to get a job, find housing, or even secure a loan. What’s at stake isn’t just a fine or a few days in jail; it’s your reputation, your financial stability, and your future opportunities. An attorney works to minimize these long-term effects, fighting for a result that lets you move forward with your life.
What to Look For in a Tempe Defense Attorney
Choosing the right criminal defense attorney is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when facing a charge. This isn’t just about finding someone with a law degree; it’s about finding a dedicated advocate who will stand between you and the prosecution. The right lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case, protecting your rights and your future. As you begin your search, it’s helpful to know what qualities separate an average attorney from a great one. You’re not just hiring a service; you’re building a partnership that will guide you through a challenging time. Focus on a few key areas: their specific experience, their familiarity with the local legal landscape, how they communicate, their past results, and the resources they have to support your case. Thinking through these factors will help you find a legal partner you can trust to handle your defense with the skill and attention it deserves. A thorough evaluation now can save you from immense stress and uncertainty later, ensuring you have the strongest possible representation by your side.
Relevant Experience and Expertise
When you’re looking for a defense attorney, you need someone who specializes in criminal law—not a general practitioner who dabbles in it. An experienced criminal defense lawyer understands the nuances of building a strong defense, from gathering evidence to challenging the prosecution’s claims. They have spent years honing their skills in this specific area of law. Look for an attorney who has a deep understanding of charges like yours. This focused expertise means they can anticipate potential issues and develop a proactive defense strategy tailored to the specifics of your situation. Their experience ensures your rights are protected at every stage of the legal process.
Knowledge of Local Courts
An attorney’s familiarity with the Tempe court system is a powerful asset. A lawyer who regularly practices in local courts knows the tendencies of the judges and the strategies of the prosecutors. This inside knowledge can be a game-changer. They understand the unwritten rules and procedures that can influence a case, helping them avoid common pitfalls and fight more effectively on your behalf. This local insight allows your attorney to make more informed decisions about legal strategy, from plea negotiations to trial preparation. It’s a level of preparedness that can only come from years of hands-on experience in the very courtrooms where your case will be heard.
Communication and Accessibility
Facing a criminal charge is incredibly stressful, and the last thing you need is an attorney who leaves you in the dark. Clear and consistent communication is essential. You should look for a lawyer who takes the time to explain your options, answer your questions, and keep you updated on your case’s progress. A great attorney is accessible and responsive. During your initial consultation, pay attention to how they listen and how clearly they speak. You should feel comfortable asking questions and confident that you will be kept in the loop. This open line of communication builds the trust necessary for a strong attorney-client partnership.
A Strong Reputation and Track Record
An attorney’s reputation is built on their past performance. Before you hire someone, do your research. Look for a lawyer with a proven history of achieving favorable outcomes for their clients, whether that means getting charges dismissed, securing acquittals at trial, or negotiating reduced penalties. Check for client testimonials and online reviews to see what former clients have to say about their experience. A strong track record demonstrates that the attorney has the skill and determination to handle tough cases effectively. Don’t hesitate to ask about their past case results—a confident and successful attorney will be transparent about their history.
The Firm’s Resources and Support Staff
A successful legal defense is often a team effort. Consider the resources the attorney and their firm have at their disposal. Does the lawyer have a dedicated support staff, including paralegals and investigators, to help build your case? A well-supported attorney can dedicate more of their time to focusing on high-level legal strategy, knowing that the detailed work of case preparation is in capable hands. While some excellent attorneys work solo, a firm with a strong team often has greater capacity to manage complex cases and conduct thorough investigations. The right legal team ensures that no stone is left unturned in your defense.
What a Criminal Defense Attorney Does
When you’re facing a criminal charge, it can feel like the entire system is against you. A criminal defense attorney is your dedicated advocate, working to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case. Their role goes far beyond just showing up in court; they are your strategist, negotiator, and guide through every step of a complex legal process. From investigating the details of your arrest to challenging the prosecution’s evidence, their job is to build a strong, personalized defense. They handle a wide spectrum of cases, applying specific knowledge and strategies to each unique situation.
Defends DUI Charges
Facing a DUI charge can be overwhelming, but a defense attorney’s job is to scrutinize every piece of evidence. They will investigate the traffic stop, the administration of field sobriety tests, and the accuracy of breathalyzer or blood test results. An experienced lawyer knows how to identify procedural errors or faulty equipment that can weaken the prosecution’s case. Their goal is to find opportunities to have the charges reduced to a lesser offense, such as reckless driving, or even dismissed entirely. A strong DUI defense is built on a thorough examination of the facts and a deep understanding of Arizona’s specific DUI laws.
Handles Drug Offenses
Drug laws are complex and carry severe penalties. A criminal defense attorney is essential for anyone facing charges related to possession, sales, manufacturing, or trafficking. They begin by examining how evidence was collected, looking for any violations of your Fourth Amendment rights against illegal searches and seizures. An attorney experienced with drug crimes can challenge the prosecution’s claims about the quantity of substances involved or your intent to distribute. They work to build a defense that protects your future, whether that involves negotiating for treatment programs or fighting the charges in court.
Manages Violent Crime Cases
When the stakes are highest, a defense attorney provides a critical line of defense. For serious allegations like assault, robbery, or homicide, their role is to ensure your side of the story is heard and your rights are protected. They meticulously review police reports, witness statements, and physical evidence to find inconsistencies or weaknesses in the case against you. An attorney focused on violent crimes will explore every available option, from arguing self-defense to challenging the credibility of witnesses, all while providing clear guidance and support during an incredibly stressful time.
Addresses Property Crimes
Charges like theft, arson, trespassing, or vandalism fall under the category of property crimes, and a conviction can have lasting consequences. A defense attorney’s strategy often depends on the specifics of the case, such as the value of the property and the intent of the accused. They will carefully analyze the evidence to build a tailored defense. For example, they might challenge the valuation of the stolen or damaged property to reduce the severity of the charge or present evidence that demonstrates a lack of criminal intent. Their expertise in property crimes is key to handling these nuanced cases.
Represents White-Collar Crimes
White-collar crimes, such as fraud, forgery, or identity theft, often involve complicated financial records and digital evidence. A defense attorney who handles these cases must be organized, detail-oriented, and prepared to untangle complex transactions. They work to challenge the prosecution’s narrative by presenting alternative explanations for financial activities or by demonstrating that you did not have fraudulent intent. Defending against theft and fraud allegations requires a lawyer who can effectively counter the prosecution’s arguments and protect your reputation and freedom.
What to Expect from the Criminal Defense Process
Facing the criminal justice system can feel like stepping into a different world with its own language and rules. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what comes next. The good news is that you don’t have to go through it alone. A skilled criminal defense attorney will be your guide, breaking down the process into manageable steps and fighting for you at every turn. Understanding the general flow of a criminal case can help demystify the experience and empower you to be an active participant in your own defense. From your first conversation with a lawyer to the final resolution, here’s a look at the key phases you can expect.
The First Meeting
Your initial consultation with a criminal defense lawyer is more than just a meet-and-greet; it’s the foundation of your entire case. This meeting is your opportunity to share your side of the story in a confidential setting. Be prepared to provide all the details you can remember, as well as any paperwork you have, like a police report or citation. The attorney will listen, ask clarifying questions, and begin to assess the strengths and weaknesses of your situation. This is also your chance to interview them. You should feel comfortable asking about their experience and their initial thoughts on your case. Think of it as a crucial first step in building a strong defense and finding a legal partner you can trust.
Building a Case Strategy
After the initial meeting, your attorney will start crafting a defense strategy tailored specifically to you. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all plan. It’s a dynamic approach based on the specific charges, the evidence the prosecution has (or doesn’t have), and the unique circumstances of your case. Your lawyer will investigate every angle, which may involve interviewing witnesses, reviewing police procedures, or consulting with experts. They will discuss potential defense theories with you, explaining the best- and worst-case scenarios so you have a clear picture of what lies ahead. This collaborative dialogue is essential for developing a strategy that aligns with your goals and gives you the best possible chance at a favorable outcome.
Navigating Pre-Trial Procedures
The period between being charged and going to trial is filled with critical legal steps known as pre-trial procedures. This phase can include the arraignment (where you formally enter a plea), bail or bond hearings, and the discovery process, where your attorney obtains all the evidence the prosecution has against you. Your lawyer will handle these complex proceedings on your behalf. They might file pre-trial motions to challenge how evidence was collected or to request that certain evidence be excluded from trial. Each of these steps is a strategic move designed to protect your constitutional rights and strengthen your position before a trial ever begins.
Handling Plea Negotiations
Most criminal cases are resolved through plea negotiations rather than a full trial. This is a process where your attorney discusses your case with the prosecutor to reach a potential agreement, or “plea bargain.” An experienced lawyer is vital here, as they can often negotiate for reduced charges, a more lenient sentence, or alternative resolutions that avoid a criminal conviction altogether. Your attorney will present any plea offers to you, carefully explaining the pros and cons of accepting the deal versus going to trial. While they will provide their professional recommendation, the ultimate decision to accept or reject a plea offer is always yours to make.
Preparing for Trial
If your case proceeds to trial, your attorney will shift into an intensive preparation phase. This involves finalizing the defense strategy, organizing evidence, and preparing witnesses to testify. Your lawyer will also get you ready for the courtroom, explaining what to expect each day and how to conduct yourself before the judge and jury. If you plan to testify, they will work with you extensively to ensure you are prepared for both direct examination and cross-examination. The goal of this meticulous preparation is to present the most compelling and effective defense possible. Having an experienced trial attorney in your corner ensures you can face the complexities of the justice system with confidence.
Key Questions to Ask Before You Hire
Your initial consultation with a potential attorney is more than just a meet-and-greet; it’s an interview. You are hiring someone for a critical role, and you need to be sure they’re the right fit. Walking into that meeting prepared with specific questions will help you gather the information you need to make a confident decision. Think of these questions as your toolkit for evaluating their experience, strategy, and communication style. A good lawyer will welcome your questions and provide clear, direct answers.
“Have you handled cases like mine?”
When you’re looking for a lawyer, you need more than a generalist. You need someone who has specific, hands-on experience with cases just like yours. Criminal law is incredibly complex, and a defense for a DUI charge looks very different from a defense for theft. Asking this question helps you understand if the attorney is familiar with the specific laws, evidence, and prosecutorial tactics related to your situation. An attorney with a track record of handling similar cases can provide a more effective and tailored defense strategy because they already know the landscape.
“What is your initial strategy?”
While no attorney can map out the entire case in the first meeting, they should be able to give you an idea of their initial approach. This question gives you a window into their strategic thinking. Are they proactive? Do they immediately start thinking about gathering evidence, filing motions, or identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case? A thoughtful answer shows that the attorney is already engaged and considering the best path forward. The initial consultation is the perfect time to see if their approach aligns with your needs and gives you confidence in their ability to handle your defense.
“How will we communicate?”
Feeling left in the dark is one of the most stressful parts of a criminal case. Establishing clear communication expectations from the start is essential for a healthy attorney-client relationship. Ask who your primary point of contact will be—the attorney directly or a paralegal? What is their typical response time for calls and emails? How will you receive important updates about your case? A good attorney will have a clear system in place and will make sure you feel heard and informed every step of the way. This ensures you can comfortably discuss your case and stay updated.
“How do your fees work?”
Talking about money can be awkward, but it’s a conversation you must have. You need to understand the full financial picture before you commit. Ask for a clear breakdown of their fee structure—do they charge a flat fee, an hourly rate, or require a retainer? It’s also important to ask what that fee includes and what it doesn’t. Are there other potential expenses, like investigator fees, expert witness costs, or court filing fees? Understanding the costs associated with legal services upfront helps you plan accordingly and avoids any unwelcome surprises down the road.
“What are the potential outcomes?”
Be cautious of any attorney who makes big promises or guarantees a specific result. The legal system is unpredictable, and an ethical lawyer will be honest about that. Instead, ask about the range of possible outcomes for your case. A trustworthy attorney will walk you through the best-case, worst-case, and most likely scenarios based on the details you’ve provided. This kind of transparent conversation helps you set realistic expectations and shows that the attorney is giving you an honest assessment, which is exactly what you need when making such an important decision.
Breaking Down the Cost of Legal Defense
Let’s talk about one of the biggest concerns when facing a criminal charge: the cost. It’s completely normal to worry about how you’ll afford a strong legal defense, and the uncertainty can feel overwhelming. The truth is, legal fees can vary quite a bit, often ranging from $1,500 to over $25,000. This wide range isn’t arbitrary; it reflects the unique details of each case, the seriousness of the charges, and the lawyer’s experience. While it’s a significant expense, it’s helpful to think of it as an investment in your future.
A skilled defense attorney does more than just show up in court; they protect your rights, your reputation, and your future opportunities. The long-term consequences of a conviction—like hefty fines, loss of employment, or a permanent criminal record—can be far more costly than the legal fees themselves. A good lawyer works to minimize those consequences, potentially saving you money and stress down the road. We believe in being upfront about costs, so you can feel prepared and confident in your decision. Understanding how fees are structured is the first step toward taking control of your situation.
How Attorneys Structure Fees
The cost of hiring a criminal defense attorney in Tempe is based on a few key things. First is the seriousness of the charge. A misdemeanor will generally cost less to defend than a felony, which involves more complex legal work. The specific details of your case also play a big part. A case that requires a deep investigation, expert witnesses, or a lengthy trial will naturally require more resources and time. Finally, an attorney’s experience and track record are factored in. A seasoned lawyer with years of success brings a level of skill and insight that is invaluable, and their fees reflect that expertise.
Your Payment Options
Most criminal defense attorneys use one of two main fee structures: hourly rates or flat fees. An hourly rate, which can be anywhere from $200 to over $600, means you pay for the actual time your legal team spends on your case. This is common for complex situations where the total time needed is unpredictable. For more defined cases, like many DUI offenses, a lawyer might offer a flat fee. This is a single, all-inclusive price, typically ranging from $1,500 to $15,000 or more. A flat fee provides certainty, so you know exactly what to budget for from the start.
Planning for Additional Costs
Beyond your attorney’s fee, there are other potential expenses to keep in mind. These are often called “case costs” and cover the resources needed to build a strong defense. For example, your case might benefit from hiring an expert witness to provide specialized testimony or a private investigator to uncover new evidence. Other common costs include court filing fees, fees for obtaining official documents like police reports, and travel expenses if necessary. A transparent attorney will discuss these potential additional costs with you during your initial consultation so you have a complete financial picture and aren’t caught by surprise.
Why a Professional Defense is Worth It
It’s easy to focus on the upfront cost of hiring a lawyer, but it’s crucial to weigh that against the long-term costs of a conviction. Fines, mandatory classes, and restitution can add up fast. Even more significant is the impact a criminal record can have on your life—it can prevent you from getting a job, renting an apartment, or keeping a professional license. An experienced criminal defense attorney works to protect you from these outcomes. By fighting to get charges reduced or dismissed, they can save you from fines and safeguard your career. It’s an investment in your freedom and your future.
How to Partner With Your Attorney
Hiring a criminal defense attorney is the first step, but the work doesn’t stop there. The most successful outcomes often come from a strong attorney-client partnership. You are a critical part of your own defense team. By being an active, informed, and organized participant, you empower your attorney to represent you most effectively. This collaboration is built on clear communication, mutual respect, and a shared goal: protecting your rights and securing the best possible result for your case. Working together ensures that your side of the story is fully understood and that your defense strategy is as strong as it can be.
Set Clear Communication Guidelines
One of the biggest advantages of hiring a private attorney is the potential for better communication and direct access. To make the most of this, you should establish clear expectations from the start. Ask your attorney about their preferred method of contact—is it email, phone calls, or a secure client portal? Find out who your primary point of contact will be, whether it’s the attorney directly or a paralegal. It’s also helpful to discuss how often you can expect updates on your case. Setting these ground rules early on prevents misunderstandings and ensures you feel informed and supported throughout the process, rather than being left in the dark.
Organize Your Documents
Your first meeting with an attorney is a critical time for them to gather essential information that will form the foundation of your defense. You can make this meeting incredibly productive by arriving with all your relevant documents organized. This includes any paperwork you received from law enforcement, such as the police report, citations, or bail papers. It’s also helpful to write down a detailed, chronological account of the events as you remember them. If you have names and contact information for any potential witnesses, bring that along, too. Having everything in order allows your attorney to get up to speed quickly and start building your case right away.
Understand the Timeline
The legal system moves at its own pace, and it’s rarely as fast as what we see on TV. It’s important to have a realistic understanding of the timeline for your case. During your initial consultation, ask your attorney to walk you through the typical stages of a case like yours in Arizona. This includes arraignment, pre-trial conferences, potential motions, and the possibility of a trial. While no one can predict the exact timeline, a good lawyer can provide a general overview of the process and the key milestones ahead. This helps you manage your expectations and prepare mentally for the road ahead, reducing anxiety about the unknown.
Know Your Role in Your Defense
Remember, hiring a lawyer doesn’t mean you’re admitting guilt. It means you value your freedom, your rights, and your future. Your role in your defense is crucial. You are the one person who knows the most about your situation. Your primary responsibilities are to be completely honest with your attorney and to be responsive when they need information from you. Withholding details or being hard to reach can seriously hinder their ability to defend you effectively. You are an active partner in this process, and your cooperation and honesty are some of the most powerful tools in your defense toolkit.
Help Develop the Defense Strategy
While your attorney brings the legal expertise, you bring the facts and personal context that are essential to the case. A collaborative approach is key to help your attorney build a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances. Be prepared to discuss the details of your case openly. Your input can help identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, find witnesses, or provide context that isn’t in the police report. Your lawyer will guide the legal direction, but your insights and perspective are invaluable in shaping a defense that truly represents your side of the story and aims for the best possible outcome.
How to Make Your Final Decision
After you’ve done your research and held a few consultations, it’s time to make a choice. This isn’t just about hiring a lawyer; it’s about choosing a partner who will stand with you during a challenging time. The right attorney can make all the difference in your case and your peace of mind. Here’s how to weigh your options and make a confident final decision.
Spotting the Red Flags
When you’re meeting with potential attorneys, keep an eye out for a few warning signs. If a lawyer is vague about their fees, slow to return your initial call, or seems distracted during your consultation, that’s a red flag. You deserve an attorney who is present and transparent from the very beginning. Be cautious of anyone who guarantees a specific outcome—the legal system is unpredictable, and ethical lawyers manage expectations instead of making empty promises. A lack of client testimonials or a reluctance to discuss past case outcomes can also signal inexperience. These are some of the key red flags to watch for when making your choice.
How to Verify Credentials
Before you sign any agreement, do a final background check. It’s a simple step that provides major peace of mind. You can easily confirm that an attorney is licensed and in good standing by using the State Bar of Arizona’s Find a Lawyer tool. This directory will also show any public disciplinary history. Beyond that, take a few minutes to read online reviews from past clients on sites like Avvo, Google, and Yelp. While a single negative review isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, a pattern of similar complaints about communication or professionalism should give you pause. This due diligence ensures you’re hiring a qualified and respected professional.
Why You Should Compare Attorneys
It might be tempting to hire the first attorney you speak with, but it’s always wise to consult with at least two or three. Each lawyer will bring a unique perspective to your case, and hearing different potential strategies can be incredibly insightful. This process allows you to compare not just their experience and fee structures, but also their communication styles. Do you prefer someone who is aggressive and direct, or someone more measured and reassuring? There’s no right answer, but there is a right fit for you. Having a solid list of questions to ask a lawyer during these meetings will help you make a direct comparison and choose the best advocate for your situation.
Go With Your Gut
After you’ve reviewed the facts, checked credentials, and compared your options, the final decision often comes down to a gut feeling. You’re going to be sharing personal, sensitive information with this person and trusting them with your future. It’s essential that you feel comfortable with them. Did you feel heard and respected during your conversation? Do you trust them to be honest with you, even when the news is bad? A strong attorney-client relationship is built on communication and confidence. If something feels off, it probably is. Trust your instincts—they are one of your most valuable tools in this process. Your initial consultation should leave you feeling more confident, not more anxious.
Related Articles
- How to Find the Best Criminal Attorney in Tempe – Oliversonlaw
- How to Choose an Apache Junction Criminal Lawyer – Oliversonlaw
- Choosing a Criminal Defense Attorney in Goodyear, AZ – Oliversonlaw
- How a Criminal Defense Lawyer Fights Felony Charges – Oliversonlaw
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to contact a lawyer? The ideal time to contact an attorney is as soon as you think you might be under investigation or immediately after an arrest. The earlier a lawyer gets involved, the more they can do to protect your rights. Early legal counsel can prevent you from unintentionally saying something that could be used against you and allows your defense team to start gathering evidence and building a strategy from day one.
What if I believe I’m innocent? Do I still need a lawyer? Yes, absolutely. The legal system is complicated, and unfortunately, innocence isn’t always enough to prevent a conviction. A prosecutor’s job is to build a convincing case against you, regardless of the actual facts. A defense attorney’s role is to challenge that case, ensure law enforcement followed proper procedures, and present your side of the story clearly and effectively. Think of it as essential protection for your future.
Will I have to go to court if I hire an attorney? Not necessarily. A significant number of criminal cases are resolved through negotiations before a trial ever begins. An experienced attorney can often work with the prosecution to get charges reduced or even dismissed, which would keep you out of the courtroom. While we always prepare every case as if it will go to trial, the primary goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for you, which frequently happens outside of court.
What’s the difference between a public defender and a private attorney? Public defenders are often very capable lawyers, but they typically manage extremely high caseloads. This can limit the amount of time and individual attention they can dedicate to your defense. When you hire a private attorney, you are securing a legal team with the focused resources, time, and accessibility to build a defense strategy that is tailored specifically to you and the unique details of your situation.
What should I do (and not do) after being charged with a crime? The most critical step is to exercise your right to remain silent. Do not discuss the details of your case with law enforcement, friends, or family, and avoid posting anything about it on social media. Your first and only call should be to a criminal defense attorney. They will handle all communications on your behalf and guide you on exactly what to do next to protect yourself.