Q. Is it OK to discuss my case with family and/or friends?
A. Aside from your lawyer, it is not a good idea to talk to anyone regarding your case. Anything you may have said to anyone may be used to convict you in court, even when you thought you were speaking "in confidence". Let your lawyer speak with the police and media and handle any written or verbal statements.
Q. Should I have a lawyer present at my arraignment?
A. Though the arraignment process is fairly straightforward and most people can walk through the steps themselves, it is always best to have an attorney with you. The arraignment is your first appearance before a judge where you will enter your plea of guilty or not guilty to the offense with which you have been charged. Dates will be set for the next procedures and bail requests will be considered at this time.
Q. Is it a bad idea to represent myself in a criminal case?
A. The more serious the charges, the more sense it makes to have an attorney on your side. For minor traffic offenses you are probably fine on your own, but if the charges you face could result in jail time or steep fines, you should not be without a criminal matters lawyer.