When you’re facing criminal charges, time is never on your side. The sooner you speak with a criminal defense attorney, the better your chances of building a strong case. But simply hiring a lawyer isn’t enough—you also need to provide them with accurate, detailed, and honest information right away. Your attorney can only protect your rights and advocate for you effectively if they know the full story.
Here are the most important things you should tell your criminal defense attorney immediately after hiring them.
1. The Complete Story of the Incident
Even if you think some details are irrelevant, your lawyer needs to hear everything. Provide a full account of what happened before, during, and after the incident that led to your arrest or investigation. Leave nothing out, even if you think it makes you look guilty. Your attorney is not there to judge you—they are there to protect you.
Remember, attorneys cannot defend you properly if they are caught off guard by evidence or testimony later in the case. Surprises are damaging in court, so be open about every detail.
2. Any Evidence You Have (or Know About)
If you have text messages, emails, receipts, photos, or any other form of evidence related to your case, give them to your attorney right away. Don’t delete or alter anything, as doing so may hurt your defense.
Likewise, if you know about evidence the prosecution may have against you—like surveillance footage, witness statements, or social media posts—share that information. Your attorney can start strategizing on how to counter or challenge it.
3. Your Criminal History
Even if you think your past has nothing to do with your current charges, your lawyer should know about any prior arrests or convictions. Prosecutors often use criminal history to push for harsher penalties, and your attorney needs to be prepared for that possibility.
Being upfront about your record also helps your lawyer assess whether you might be eligible for alternative sentencing options, diversion programs, or plea bargains.
4. Witness Information
Do you know anyone who saw the incident or can vouch for your character? Provide their names and contact information to your attorney immediately. Reliable witnesses can play a big role in strengthening your defense, whether they testify in court or provide statements to support your side of the story.
5. Your Relationship with Law Enforcement
If you spoke with the police, confessed, or made any kind of statement, your lawyer needs to know exactly what you said. Law enforcement officers may present statements in a way that doesn’t favor you, and your attorney must be prepared to address that.
Even if you think what you said was harmless, it’s best to tell your lawyer word-for-word. This allows them to anticipate the prosecution’s arguments.
6. Immigration Status (If Applicable)
If you are not a U.S. citizen, criminal charges could affect your immigration status. Deportation, visa denial, or green card issues can arise even from misdemeanor offenses. Your attorney must know your status upfront so they can protect both your criminal record and your immigration standing.
7. Financial Concerns
Be clear with your attorney about your financial situation. This includes whether you can afford bail, fines, or ongoing legal fees. Many attorneys will work with clients on payment plans, but transparency is important from the beginning. Your lawyer may also be able to request reduced fines or advocate for alternative penalties if finances are a concern.
Why Honesty Matters Most
Some people make the mistake of holding back information out of fear or embarrassment. This only makes your attorney’s job harder. Remember: anything you tell your lawyer is protected by the attorney-client privilege. They cannot disclose what you share without your permission.
Being completely honest gives your attorney the tools they need to challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and fight for the best outcome possible.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a criminal defense attorney is one of the most important steps you can take after an arrest. But their ability to protect you depends on what you share with them. From the full story of your incident to your criminal history, immigration status, and financial situation, transparency is key.
The sooner your lawyer knows every detail, the stronger your defense strategy will be. If you’re ever unsure whether a piece of information is relevant, tell your attorney anyway—it could make the difference between conviction and acquittal.
This post was written by a professional at The Law Office of Eric H. Clayman, P.A. The Law Office of Eric H. Clayman, P.A., serves Ft. Lauderdale and Broward County, specializing in criminal defense, including DUI, drug crimes, and violent offenses. With a background as a former police officer, Eric H. Clayman brings invaluable insight into law enforcement procedures. His experience as a DUI investigator, narcotics investigator, and member of street crimes and auto theft units, along with executing high-risk felony warrants, gives him a strategic edge in defending his clients. Committed to protecting your rights and achieving the best results, the Law Office of Eric H. Clayman, P.A., criminal defense attorney Hollywood, is your trusted ally in the face of criminal charges.
