A. Every contact with an attorney is a confidential communication.  No information about you will leave Susan's office without your permission, regardless of whether you and she decide to enter into an agreement for her to see you through your difficulties.

     At the first interview, you can explain the problem that brought you and the concerns you have about the criminal justice process.  Plan to bring with you all documents which you feel are important or which you have about your case.

     Susan will outline the process of a criminal investigation, what happens when a person is charged with a crime, and the course the case may take.

Q.  Should I expect to be charged a fee for the first interview?

A.  Since an attorney's time is her "stock in trade," you should expect to be charged for Susan's time.  This charge [usually one hour at her normal rate of $275.00 - $300.00 per hour] will be applied toward the total fee if you and she determine that you would like to retain Susan to complete the case for you.  Susan will explain the approximate fees and costs to be expected throughout the case. Total fees are negotiated as either a single fee [a "flat fee"] for the entire case or one charged hourly and billed on a monthly basis.  Your own financial resources and preferences are always important to this discussion.

Q.  If a policeman or government official wants to talk to me about my situation before I have spoken to an attorney, what should I do?

A. The Constitution of the United States and the state constitutions in Oregon and Washington guarantee a person the right to remain silent.  This means that you do not need to speak with a policeman, a social worker investigating your case, or anyone else who may ask you about it.  You may be completely innocent of any wrongdoing, but if you do not talk, you will not be misquoted, misled or misunderstood.  Ask for an attorney.  Do not talk.  Contact an attorney at your earliest chance for further information. The best way to speak about your case is with an experienced criminal defense attorney by your side.