Facing an accusation for a violent or serious crime in Kensington can turn your life upside down in an instant. You may be worried about prison time, a permanent strike on your record, and how your future in Contra Costa County will be affected. The Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed focuses on defending people charged with serious offenses throughout Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. From the first moment you learn about an investigation, you deserve clear guidance, protection of your rights, and a dedicated defense strategy tailored to your situation and goals.
Violent and serious felony charges in California carry some of the harshest consequences in the criminal justice system. Prosecutors in Kensington and throughout Contra Costa County take these cases very seriously and often push for lengthy sentences under the state’s Three Strikes law. Having a seasoned defender in your corner can help you understand the charges, evaluate the evidence, and make informed decisions at every stage. Our firm works closely with clients and families, explaining each step, exploring every option, and fighting for the most favorable outcome available under the circumstances.
When you are accused of a violent or serious crime in Kensington, the stakes could not be higher. A conviction may mean years in state prison, loss of employment opportunities, immigration problems, and lasting damage to your reputation. With so much on the line, you need a legal team that understands local courts, common prosecution tactics, and how to challenge evidence. Effective representation can uncover weaknesses in the case against you, negotiate for reduced charges or alternative resolutions, and present your side of the story in a clear and compelling way to judges and juries.
The Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed is a criminal defense law firm serving Kensington, Oakland, and communities throughout Contra Costa and Alameda Counties. Over the years, the firm has handled a wide range of violent and serious felony charges, including assault, robbery, domestic violence, and homicide cases. Clients appreciate direct communication, honest feedback, and a thorough review of every detail. The firm is committed to protecting constitutional rights, challenging improper police conduct, and building strong, tailored defenses that reflect each client’s history, needs, and long-term goals.
California law treats violent and serious crimes differently from other offenses, and residents of Kensington must be aware of how these cases are handled. These charges often trigger enhanced penalties, potential strikes, and strict sentencing guidelines that give prosecutors significant leverage. Even a first-time accusation can lead to consequences far beyond standard misdemeanors. Understanding the exact nature of the charges, how they are defined in the Penal Code, and the potential sentencing range is the first step toward making informed decisions about how to move forward with your defense.
In Kensington, violent and serious crime cases may involve complex evidence such as surveillance footage, forensic testing, digital records, or eyewitness statements. Law enforcement and prosecutors often build their narrative quickly, long before the defense has a chance to respond. Having a defense team that knows how to interpret police reports, examine witness credibility, and consult with appropriate professionals can be vital. By understanding these moving parts early, you can better appreciate your options, whether that means seeking dismissal, reduction of charges, or preparing for trial.
In California, violent and serious crimes are specific offenses listed in the Penal Code that carry greater punishment and may count as strikes. They include crimes like robbery, certain types of burglary, assault with a deadly weapon, some domestic violence offenses, and various homicide-related charges. These crimes are considered more harmful because they involve threats to another person’s safety or use of force. Being charged with a violent or serious crime in Kensington does not mean you are guilty, but it does mean your case will likely receive close attention from prosecutors and the court.
Violent and serious crime cases often turn on a few central issues: intent, use of force, and the extent of alleged injury or threat. Prosecutors in Kensington must prove each legal element beyond a reasonable doubt, including identity, mental state, and participation. The legal process typically involves an arrest, arraignment, bail arguments, pretrial hearings, negotiations, and possibly a jury trial. Throughout this process, your attorney can file motions to suppress evidence, challenge identification procedures, and question the reliability of witnesses, all with the goal of achieving dismissal, reduction, or acquittal.
If you are facing a violent or serious crime charge in Kensington, the legal terms used in court can feel unfamiliar and overwhelming. Phrases like “strike offense,” “enhancement,” and “aggravating factors” can have major consequences for your case, yet they are rarely explained in everyday language. Understanding a few core definitions can help you follow what is happening and participate in decisions about plea offers or trial. Below is a short glossary of common terms you are likely to hear during the life of a violent or serious crimes case in California courts.
A strike offense is a serious or violent felony listed in California’s Three Strikes law. If you are convicted of a strike in Kensington, that conviction can increase penalties for any future felony. A second strike can significantly raise your sentence, and a third strike can lead to a lengthy prison term. Not every felony is a strike, and sometimes the classification of a charge as a strike can be challenged or negotiated. Understanding whether your charges involve a possible strike is essential for evaluating the risks and benefits of any plea offer.
A sentencing enhancement is an additional allegation that can increase the punishment for a violent or serious crime conviction. In Kensington cases, enhancements might be based on using a weapon, causing great bodily injury, or committing the offense for the benefit of a gang. These add-ons can add years to a prison sentence, even if the underlying charge remains the same. Your defense lawyer can analyze whether enhancements are supported by the evidence, challenge their legal basis, and negotiate to have them dismissed or reduced as part of a fair resolution.
Great bodily injury, often called GBI, refers to significant or substantial physical injury, not just minor or moderate harm. Prosecutors in California frequently allege GBI in violent crime cases to seek longer prison terms and strike consequences. In Kensington cases, whether an injury qualifies as GBI can be highly contested, relying on medical records, photographs, and testimony. Challenging a GBI enhancement may involve questioning the severity or cause of injuries, exploring alternative explanations, or pointing out inconsistencies, which can make a meaningful difference in the potential sentence you face.
A plea bargain is an agreement between the prosecution and the defense where the defendant agrees to plead guilty or no contest to certain charges in exchange for a particular outcome. In Kensington violent and serious crime cases, a plea bargain might involve reducing a strike offense to a non-strike, dismissing some enhancements, or agreeing to probation instead of state prison. While a plea bargain can help manage risk, it is a serious decision with lasting consequences. Carefully reviewing the evidence and all possible outcomes before accepting any offer is extremely important.
After an arrest for a violent or serious crime in Kensington, you may face several legal paths, each with different risks and benefits. Some people hope to resolve the case quickly with a plea, while others want to fight the charges at trial. There may also be options to seek dismissal through motions, challenge the legality of a search or confession, or negotiate a reduction to a lesser offense. Understanding when a more limited approach could work and when a thorough, long-term strategy is advisable is a key part of making informed decisions.
In some Kensington violent crime cases, a targeted strategy focused on one or two key issues can be effective. For example, if there are serious questions about the legality of a stop, search, or statement, your lawyer might concentrate on a suppression motion that could gut the prosecution’s case. When the main evidence is clearly unreliable or improperly obtained, a focused approach may lead to a dismissal or significant reduction without the need for a lengthy trial. The key is honest assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the evidence early on.
A more limited strategy may also work in Kensington when prosecutors are open to reasonable negotiations from the outset. If you have little or no prior record, strong community ties, and mitigating circumstances, the district attorney may be willing to reduce a violent or serious charge to something less severe. In these situations, gathering favorable background information, letters of support, and proof of counseling or treatment can encourage a prompt resolution. This approach can help you move forward faster, minimize public exposure, and reduce the long-term impact of the case on your record.
When you are facing strike-eligible felonies or multiple enhancements in Kensington, a comprehensive defense approach is often essential. These cases may involve life-altering penalties and complex legal issues that cannot be resolved with a quick plea. A thorough strategy includes reviewing every piece of evidence, interviewing witnesses, consulting with relevant professionals, and preparing for the possibility of trial. It also involves exploring alternative resolutions, such as treatment-based options or reduced charges. With so much at risk, investing time and effort into building a complete defense can greatly influence the ultimate outcome.
Violent and serious crime cases that involve significant injuries, domestic situations, or sensitive allegations often demand a broad and careful defense plan. In Kensington, these cases may draw strong reactions from alleged victims, law enforcement, and the community. A comprehensive approach allows your defense team to uncover inconsistencies, explore self-defense or mistaken identity, and present your background in a balanced way. This may involve gathering medical records, social media posts, and other material that reveals the full story. Thoughtful preparation is especially important when public perception and emotions could influence the case.
Taking a comprehensive approach to a violent or serious crimes charge in Kensington can open up opportunities that might otherwise be missed. A thorough review can reveal legal defects, alternative explanations, or mitigation that softens how prosecutors and judges view the case. By investing the time to develop a detailed timeline, gather favorable witnesses, and examine every record, your defense becomes more than a reaction to the state’s version of events. Instead, it becomes an affirmative story that highlights your humanity, your history, and the reasons you deserve a second look.
A broad defense strategy can also improve your ability to negotiate from a position of strength. When prosecutors see that your Kensington defense team is fully prepared, they may be more willing to consider alternative resolutions or reduced charges. Comprehensive preparation also helps you feel more informed and involved, reducing anxiety and surprises along the way. Even if the case proceeds to trial, the groundwork laid through investigation, motions, and careful planning gives you the best possible chance of presenting a strong, persuasive defense to the jury.
When your defense is thorough and well-documented, your attorney can negotiate with Kensington prosecutors from a stronger position. Instead of accepting the state’s version of events, you present a detailed narrative backed by records, witnesses, and legal arguments. This can support requests for reduced charges, dismissal of enhancements, or alternative sentencing focused on rehabilitation rather than long prison terms. Prosecutors are more likely to take your side seriously when they see the case has been carefully prepared for trial, making meaningful negotiations and fair resolutions more realistic possibilities.
If your Kensington violent crimes case proceeds to trial, comprehensive preparation can make a significant difference. A well-developed defense includes carefully selected themes, prepared witnesses, cross-examination plans, and exhibits that highlight weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Jurors often look for clarity and consistency, and your attorney can use thorough preparation to challenge unreliable witnesses, questionable forensics, and biased assumptions. By planning for trial from the early stages, you preserve important defenses and give yourself the best chance of persuading the jury that the state has not met its burden of proof.
After a violent or serious crime accusation in Kensington, the urge to explain yourself to police can be intense. However, statements made in the heat of the moment are often misunderstood or used against you later. You have the right to remain silent and to request an attorney before answering questions. Politely but firmly state that you want to speak with a lawyer, then stop talking about the case. Remaining calm, avoiding arguments with officers, and not discussing details with anyone besides your defense team can protect your rights.
After an arrest for a violent or serious crime in Kensington, courts may issue protective orders, bail conditions, or no-contact directives. Carefully following these rules shows the judge you take the process seriously and can prevent new charges. Keep all court dates on your calendar, arrive early, and dress respectfully. If you have questions about what you are allowed to do, ask your attorney before taking action. Staying compliant, avoiding new trouble, and engaging in counseling or programs when appropriate can positively influence the outcome of your case.
If you live in Kensington or the surrounding Contra Costa County area and face allegations of violent or serious crimes, obtaining focused defense representation is one of the most important steps you can take. The consequences of these cases reach far beyond the courtroom, affecting family relationships, employment, housing, and immigration status. A dedicated defense team can explain what you are facing, shield you from aggressive tactics, and help you weigh options. Early involvement gives your attorney more time to investigate, secure favorable evidence, and present your story before opinions are firmly formed.
Even if you believe the case will “blow over,” violent and serious crime charges rarely disappear on their own. Prosecutors in Kensington take these cases seriously, and delaying can limit your options. By engaging defense counsel promptly, you gain an advocate who can speak on your behalf, manage communication, and push back against unfair assumptions. Whether the goal is dismissal, reduced charges, or a creative resolution that protects your future, having guidance tailored to Kensington courts and local practices can make a meaningful difference in your life.
Violent and serious crime allegations in Kensington arise in many different settings, often involving misunderstandings, emotions, or split-second decisions. Bar or street altercations, domestic disagreements, and incidents involving neighbors or coworkers can escalate quickly and draw police attention. Sometimes a person is swept up in a group situation or mistaken for someone else. Alcohol, stress, and long-standing conflicts can play a large role. Whatever the situation, being charged does not define who you are. A careful review of what really happened is essential before any lasting judgment is made.
Law enforcement in Kensington often responds aggressively to domestic disturbance calls, and even minor physical contact or heated words can lead to serious charges. In the chaos of the moment, officers may arrest someone simply to separate the parties, and later reports may not fully reflect the complexity of the relationship. Allegations might involve intimate partners, family members, or roommates. Defending these cases requires sensitivity to privacy, history, and ongoing family needs. Many people seek legal help not only to fight the charges but also to protect children, housing, and future relationships.
Fights outside bars, restaurants, and neighborhood gatherings in and around Kensington can quickly lead to assault, battery, or robbery charges. Police often arrive after the event, relying on confused or biased accounts from a few witnesses. Surveillance video may not tell the whole story, and injuries may be blamed on the wrong person. Alcohol or group pressure can cloud judgment on all sides. A strong defense examines whether you were defending yourself or others, whether you were misidentified, or whether the level of force was exaggerated in later descriptions.
Robbery and weapon allegations in Kensington often arise from encounters that happened quickly and are recalled differently by each participant. A dispute over property, a misunderstanding during a sale, or simply being present at the wrong time can result in charges that carry serious consequences. Police may assume the worst if a weapon is allegedly involved, even when the facts are unclear. Building a defense can require challenging identifications, analyzing phone records and messages, and exploring whether there was a genuine threat or a misinterpretation of events.
The Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed is committed to guiding Kensington residents through the stress of violent and serious crime accusations. From the first call, our team listens carefully to your concerns, explains the process in plain language, and begins developing a plan. We coordinate with families, address urgent issues like bail and protective orders, and investigate the case with an eye toward long-term consequences. Our goal is to protect your rights, keep you informed at every step, and pursue the most favorable outcome available under California law.
Hiring the Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed for a violent or serious crime case in Kensington means working with a criminal defense firm that understands Contra Costa and Alameda County courts. The firm has handled a wide range of high-stakes felonies, and uses that background to anticipate prosecution strategies and court expectations. Clients receive honest assessments, realistic guidance, and a defense tailored to the facts. The focus is always on your future, your family, and limiting the impact of the charges, whether through negotiation, motion practice, or trial.
The firm’s approach emphasizes communication and collaboration, ensuring you are never left guessing about what comes next. You will have the opportunity to review evidence, discuss options, and participate in key decisions. The office is based in the Oakland area and regularly appears in Contra Costa County courts, including those handling Kensington matters. This local familiarity helps in understanding how different judges and prosecutors handle violent and serious cases. By combining careful preparation with practical insight, the firm works to protect your rights and present your story effectively.
When you contact the Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed about a violent or serious crime charge in Kensington, we follow a structured process designed to protect you from the start. We begin by listening to your account, reviewing available documents, and identifying immediate concerns such as bail, protective orders, and employment issues. Then we map out short-term and long-term goals, including whether dismissal, reduction, or trial is most realistic. Throughout the case, we stay in close communication, review new developments with you, and adjust strategy as needed to pursue the best possible result.
The first step after a Kensington arrest is an in-depth consultation focused on understanding your situation and protecting your rights. During this stage, we review the charges, discuss what happened from your perspective, and gather any documents or messages you already have. We also address urgent matters such as contacting family, arranging bail where possible, and advising you about future interactions with police or alleged victims. This early phase sets the foundation for your defense and ensures that important deadlines are not missed at the beginning of the case.
At the initial meeting, we take the time to hear your full story, including events leading up to the incident, any prior interactions with the other parties, and concerns about your background or immigration status. We explain each charge in the complaint or information so you understand what the state must prove. Small details often matter in violent and serious crimes cases, so we encourage clients to share everything they remember, even if it seems unimportant. This information helps us spot defenses early and decide what evidence to seek.
In violent and serious crime cases, courts sometimes set high bail or issue strict protective orders. During the first stage of representation, we work to reduce bail where possible, clarify no-contact conditions, and help you avoid unintentional violations. We may gather letters of support, employment records, and community information that show your ties to Kensington or the surrounding area. Addressing these emergency issues quickly can help you return to work, care for your family, and prepare for your case from a more stable position.
Once immediate concerns are addressed, our focus turns to investigation. For Kensington violent and serious crime cases, this means obtaining police reports, body camera footage, medical records, and any available video or digital evidence. We analyze the prosecution’s file for weaknesses, inconsistencies, and missing information. At the same time, we begin building the defense case, identifying witnesses who may support your account, gathering favorable background material, and exploring legal motions. This stage is critical for developing leverage for negotiations and preparing for the possibility of trial.
Our team carefully reviews all discovery materials, including police narratives, witness statements, and forensic reports. In Kensington cases, we often seek additional records beyond what the prosecution initially provides, such as 911 recordings, surveillance footage from nearby businesses, and social media posts. We look for inconsistencies between statements, unexplained gaps in the timeline, and signs of bias or hurried investigation. Where appropriate, we file motions to exclude unreliable evidence, challenge identification procedures, or contest the legality of searches and seizures that led to key pieces of evidence.
Alongside challenging the state’s case, we work with you to develop your own narrative and mitigation. This may include gathering school or employment records, proof of counseling or treatment, and letters from family, employers, or community members near Kensington and Oakland. These materials help humanize you and provide context for the events, which can be especially important in violent and serious crime cases. Presenting a fuller picture of your life can influence negotiation discussions, pretrial rulings, and ultimately how a judge or jury views the allegations.
The final stage of a Kensington violent crimes case involves using what we have learned to seek the best resolution. This may include negotiating with prosecutors for dismissed enhancements, reduced charges, or alternative sentencing. If negotiations do not produce a fair result, we litigate pretrial motions and prepare for trial. Throughout this process, we keep you informed, revisiting your goals and discussing the risks and benefits of each option. Whether your case ends in a negotiated agreement or a verdict, our focus remains on protecting your rights and your future.
Armed with the results of our investigation, we engage with Kensington prosecutors to seek the most favorable terms possible. Negotiations may involve dismissing strike allegations, removing enhancements, or reducing violent charges to non-strike offenses. In some situations, we explore options like probation, treatment programs, or other alternatives to lengthy prison sentences. We carefully review each offer with you, explaining the consequences and how it compares to the risks of trial. The goal is to help you make an informed decision that balances your immediate needs with your long-term future.
If your Kensington case goes to trial, we approach the courtroom with thorough preparation and a clear defensive theme. We refine witness questions, prepare exhibits, and plan how best to explain complex issues to jurors. Your testimony, if you choose to testify, is carefully prepared so you feel as comfortable as possible. Throughout the trial, we challenge the prosecution’s version of events, highlight inconsistencies, and remind the jury of the high burden of proof required. The aim is to present a compelling narrative that supports acquittal or a significantly reduced verdict.
If you are arrested for a violent crime in Kensington, the most important step is to remain calm and avoid arguing with police. Do not resist, even if you feel the arrest is unfair. Clearly state that you are invoking your right to remain silent and that you want to speak with an attorney. Do not answer questions or explain your side of the story until you have legal counsel. Anything you say can be misinterpreted or taken out of context later in the case. After you are booked, try to contact a trusted family member and a criminal defense law firm as soon as possible. Provide your attorney with as much information as you can remember, including witnesses, locations, and any digital evidence like texts or videos. Your lawyer can then begin working on bail, preserving evidence, and communicating with the prosecution. Acting quickly protects your rights and gives your defense team a better chance to influence the direction of the case.
In many Kensington cases, violent or serious felony charges can sometimes be reduced to lesser charges, depending on the facts and your record. Reductions may be possible when evidence is weak, witness accounts conflict, or there are strong mitigating factors such as self-defense, lack of intent, or minimal injury. Plea negotiations can result in a non-strike felony or even a misdemeanor in some circumstances, which can significantly reduce the potential sentence and long-term consequences. Your attorney will review the prosecution’s file, investigate independently, and determine whether there are legal or factual grounds to seek a reduction. Presenting favorable background information, treatment records, or community support can sometimes influence negotiations. While not every case is eligible for reduced charges, having a strong defense strategy in place gives you a better chance of securing a more manageable outcome than the original accusations might suggest.
Not everyone convicted of a violent or serious crime in California automatically goes to state prison, but the risk is real. The outcome in a Kensington case depends on many factors, including the specific charge, any alleged enhancements, your prior record, and the judge’s discretion. Some offenses carry mandatory prison terms, while others allow for probation or local custody under certain conditions. Your lawyer can help you understand the sentencing range and realistic outcomes in your situation. In some cases, a strong defense can lead to reduced charges that do not require state prison, or to negotiated agreements that avoid the harshest penalties. Courts also consider mitigation, such as rehabilitation efforts, work history, family responsibilities, and community ties. By presenting a complete picture of who you are and highlighting positive changes, your attorney can make a persuasive argument for alternatives that limit time behind bars or focus on rehabilitation.
California’s Three Strikes law increases penalties for people who have prior serious or violent felony convictions. If you have one prior strike and are convicted of a new felony in Kensington, your sentence can be doubled. If you have two prior strikes and are convicted of a third strike offense, you could face a lengthy prison term. Not every felony counts as a strike, and sometimes the classification of a crime or enhancement can be challenged. Your attorney will review your record to determine whether prior convictions qualify as strikes and how they might affect your case. In some situations, the defense can ask the court to dismiss or “strike” prior strikes in the interest of justice. Negotiations may focus on avoiding a new strike by reducing charges or enhancements. Understanding how the Three Strikes law applies helps you weigh the risks of trial versus the benefits of a negotiated resolution.
Even if you believe you are completely innocent, speaking with police without a lawyer can be risky. Officers in Kensington may seem friendly or sympathetic, but their job is to gather evidence. Innocent people sometimes make statements that sound inconsistent or incomplete under stress, and those statements can be used to support charges. Once you say something, you cannot take it back, and you may not fully understand how your words fit into the larger investigation. Instead of trying to clear things up on your own, it is usually safer to politely decline to answer questions until you have an attorney present. Your lawyer can talk with police or prosecutors on your behalf, help you provide information in a controlled way if appropriate, and protect you from unfair or misleading questioning. Exercising your right to silence is not an admission of guilt; it is a smart step to protect yourself.
The Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed handles a wide range of violent and serious crime charges arising in Kensington and throughout Contra Costa and Alameda Counties. These cases can include assault, battery, domestic violence, robbery, burglary, firearm offenses, attempted murder, and homicide-related charges. Each case is different, and the firm tailors its approach to the specific facts and legal issues involved. Whether your case stems from a domestic dispute, street encounter, or alleged robbery, the focus is on building a thoughtful, fact-driven defense. Because violent and serious crimes often involve complex evidence and strong emotions, the firm takes time to understand the background, relationships, and events leading up to the incident. This can mean reviewing video footage, examining medical records, and interviewing witnesses. The goal is to challenge the prosecution’s narrative, highlight inconsistencies, and present a more complete picture of what occurred, giving judges and juries reasons to question the state’s version of events.
The length of a violent or serious crimes case in Contra Costa County varies widely, but many Kensington cases take several months to more than a year to resolve. Timing depends on factors such as the seriousness of the charge, whether you are in custody, the amount of evidence, and court scheduling. Some cases can be resolved relatively quickly through early negotiations, while others involve multiple pretrial hearings, motions, and a trial, which extend the timeline. During this period, your attorney will be working to review discovery, conduct investigation, and evaluate possible resolutions. While waiting can be stressful, rushing can lead to decisions that overlook important defenses. Regular communication with your lawyer helps you understand where things stand and what is coming next. Patience, preparation, and staying engaged with your defense can improve your chances of a favorable outcome when the case finally reaches a conclusion.
Yes, a prior criminal record can significantly influence sentencing on a new violent or serious crime charge. In Kensington and throughout California, judges and prosecutors consider past convictions, especially those involving violence or serious felonies. Prior strike offenses can trigger the Three Strikes law, increasing potential penalties. Even non-strike felonies or misdemeanors may affect bail, plea offers, and the court’s view of your background and risk to the community. That said, a prior record does not automatically mean the harshest possible sentence. Your attorney can highlight positive changes since earlier convictions, such as steady employment, family responsibilities, sobriety, and community involvement. Presenting a strong mitigation package and showing your current efforts to move forward can encourage prosecutors and judges to consider a more balanced resolution that recognizes both your past and your present circumstances.
Even if the alleged victim says they want to drop the charges, the decision ultimately belongs to the prosecutor, not the individual. In Kensington violent and serious crimes cases, district attorneys often continue prosecution even when the complaining witness changes their mind, especially in domestic violence or serious injury situations. The prosecutor may believe the original report is more accurate or worry about pressure on the alleged victim to recant. However, a reluctant or uncooperative witness can affect the strength of the state’s case. Your attorney can explore whether the witness’s new position, along with other evidence, supports a dismissal or reduction of charges. It is important not to contact the alleged victim yourself if a protective order is in place. Instead, let your lawyer handle all communications through lawful channels to avoid new charges or accusations of witness intimidation.
Many people facing serious felonies in Kensington worry about how they will afford a lawyer. At the Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed, we understand that an arrest can create financial strain. Our firm offers initial consultations to discuss your case, potential fees, and possible payment arrangements. In some situations, structured payment plans can make representation more manageable. We will explain costs clearly so you can plan and make informed choices without surprise expenses. If you truly cannot afford private counsel, the court may appoint a public defender to represent you. Regardless of who represents you, it is important to take your charges seriously and stay engaged in your defense. Ask questions, keep appointments, and provide your lawyer with information and documents promptly. Taking an active role in your case can help your defense team work more effectively on your behalf.
