In most criminal cases, an accused person engages an attorney only after an arrest or accusation. The attorney has only a brief period to become acquainted with the offender and prepare a defense. Under these circumstances, an attorney must work quickly to develop an effective and trusting relationship with the client. A good criminal defense attorney will work closely with each client to make important strategic decisions at every state of the criminal process, in order to prepare an effective defense.  The can provide invaluable advice as to how to handle a police interrogation or investigation, what plea to enter, how to obtain a release on bail, whether to accept a plea agreement, whether to waive a jury trial, what witnesses to call, and whether to testify in your own behalf. To preserve your legal rights and allow for the best possible outcome of your case, hire a specialized as soon as possible.

Criminal defense lawyers do much more than simply question witnesses in court. Good defense attorneys will:

• Formulate sentencing programs tailored to a client's specific needs, often helping defendants avoid future brushes with the justice system.
• Provide defendants with a reality check, a knowledgeable, objective perspective on their situation and what is likely to happen should their cases go to trial. This perspective is vital for defendants trying to decide whether to accept a prosecutor's offered "plea bargain".
• Are familiar with important legal rules because many criminal law rules are hidden away in court interpretations of federal and state constitutions.
• Are familiar with local court customs and procedures that aren't written down anywhere (for example, a lawyer may know which prosecutor has the "real" authority to settle a case, and what kinds of arguments are likely to appeal to that prosecutor).