The first thing I do with any new client is discuss the options for our case. While we may not have all the relevant information at our first meeting, I have a pretty good idea from my experience what the options could be down the road. Once we get more information, we can narrow down the options, and start making some decisions.
I always discuss the difference between realistic and unrealistic options. It's not productive to focus on options that are not currently available. I tell my clients that there is no EASY BUTTON or button to press to make the entire situation a dream. We deal with the facts and circumstances of the case and move forward. If a client simply wants the whole thing to go away, just because it SHOULD go away, this is not realistic. It a case should be dismissed then we will gather the information to make this happen, but things just don't go away that easily. The prosecutor is not in the business of charging cases to simply dismiss them, because that's what the client wants.
My clients only pursue realistic options - these options could include dismissals or not-guilty verdicts, but we need to fight for these results and present the proper basis. I empower my clients to help create these options with my unique proactive approach, but the prosecutor and judge have their own powers, which we need to consider when pursuing our goals. Only a prosecutor can voluntary dismiss a charge or reduce a charge. A judge can dismiss a charge based on merit, and will be the one who determines your sentence. A judge or jury will decide your guilt or innocence.
I always discuss the difference between realistic and unrealistic options. It's not productive to focus on options that are not currently available. I tell my clients that there is no EASY BUTTON or button to press to make the entire situation a dream. We deal with the facts and circumstances of the case and move forward. If a client simply wants the whole thing to go away, just because it SHOULD go away, this is not realistic. It a case should be dismissed then we will gather the information to make this happen, but things just don't go away that easily. The prosecutor is not in the business of charging cases to simply dismiss them, because that's what the client wants.
My clients only pursue realistic options - these options could include dismissals or not-guilty verdicts, but we need to fight for these results and present the proper basis. I empower my clients to help create these options with my unique proactive approach, but the prosecutor and judge have their own powers, which we need to consider when pursuing our goals. Only a prosecutor can voluntary dismiss a charge or reduce a charge. A judge can dismiss a charge based on merit, and will be the one who determines your sentence. A judge or jury will decide your guilt or innocence.