Legal representation

[Frank Ettin]

...Is there any chance you won't be able to hire any lawyer after you're arrested?...

You might not be able to hire the one you had previously talked with and who you think would do a good job for you. So know you will need to search around for a lawyer who (1) you trust and think will handle your needs effectively; and (2) will take your case on.

So sure, you should be able to find some lawyer to take your case. But you might need to take the lawyer you can get, rather than the lawyer you really have confidence in.

 

[9mmepiphany]

Ok but that doesn't explain why he needs to be hired in advance. I don't have plumbers on retainer -- I call them when I need them. Is there any chance you won't be able to hire any lawyer after you're arrested? As far as I know they all accept money and there's plenty to go around.

Sure, if they are too busy with other cases they might not take your case...a retained attorney will

If you call them during non-business hours, it is likely they won't even take your call...a retained attorney will.

It is interesting that you mention trades persons. While not specifically plumbers, I do know IT people, auto mechanics, airplane mechanics and airplane pilots who work off a retainer...they just call it a service contract. It is a lot like having a Driver in New York rather than calling a cab whenever you need to go somewhere

 

[larry_minn]

I have never paid a retainer to lawyer to have him give me his card, 24/7 contact info service (or personal cell with notice NOT to call unless SHTF)
Like another posted. They keep on retireing and so far I have not needed one. (hopefully that will remain)

IMO its good to have lawyers # for your local area. I don't mean your small town (if they don't have jail) but the (often county seat) where you will be hauled, court will be held.
Personally I have phone # of one lawyer at my county seat, a 2nd in twin cities , and 3rd in another metro area I spend time. I realize they will drive to where needed. BUT it won't be cheap, and will take time,

Plus as mentioned anyone who has been in court can easily see how the lawyers are buddies (once out of spotlight) and work with baliffs, and court Officials. "Your Honor", becomes "Mike are you comming up to our cabin this weekend?"

Yes twice I have been the guy without lawyer dealing with that crap. Did very well, didn't have to spend $$$ Thing is it was CRAP. You have your ducks in row its a cake walk. Self defense is not. Even if clear, simple I will hire a pro.

I have been told. $3k betwen day of event, prep, charges dropped is worth $100k over a trail that never would have happened....

 

[CoalTrain49]

For those of you who don't have an attorney, I strongly suggest that you find one and set up an appointment to discuss any situations where you might need an attorney's services. Ask that attorney if they would be willing to represent you. They will require you to give them basic information so they can keep you on file to represent you when you need them. This will probably cost two fidy.

Attorneys are not plumbers except maybe the Watergate Plumbers.

Most people pay for insurance that they never use. How is this different?

 

[tcoz]

Good point Coal. I pay for insurance, so a retainer should be considered just as part of the insurance.