Questions people ask after an arrest

Don't talk about the case with anyone but a lawyer, including friends, family and the police. Keep every piece of paper you were given, note your court date, and call.

Not before talking to a lawyer. You can decline an interview politely, and it can't be held against you. If there's a good reason to talk, we'll prepare and go together.

A misdemeanor can still mean a record, a lost license or a problem with immigration, housing or work. A first call costs nothing and tells you what's at stake.

Most cases are a flat fee for a stage of the case, agreed in writing before work starts. I'll quote it on the first call or after I've seen the paperwork.

Most don't. But every case is prepared as though it might, because that preparation is what leads to dismissals and good offers.

Yes. I can explain the process and the next date to them. What you tell me stays between us unless you say otherwise.

Call right away. A missed date can lead to a warrant, and it's usually far easier to fix quickly than later.

Yes. Many people come to me years later about sealing a record. See the page on sealing an old record.