At the Marc Lopez Law Firm, a question we frequently get is: “Do I need to hire an attorney before my initial hearing?” The answer, in nearly every case, is an emphatic yes. Here’s why having an attorney by your side right from the start can make a significant difference in your case.
Waiving the Initial Hearing
First, an attorney might be able to save you from attending the initial hearing altogether. In some counties and for certain charges, we can waive the initial hearing. This can be a lifesaver, sparing you a day off work or the hassle of finding transportation if your license has been suspended. Imagine not having to juggle your schedule or stress about getting to court—you can leave that to us.
Protecting Your License
If you’re facing an OVWI (Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated) charge, the state will likely try to suspend your license at the initial hearing. We can intervene and request a delay on the suspension, giving us time to file for specialized driving privileges if appropriate. If you allegedly refused a chemical test, recent changes in Indiana law allow us to fight to keep your license even in that scenario. Without an attorney, you might lose your driving privileges right away.
Handling No Contact Orders
The benefits of hiring an attorney aren’t limited to OVWI cases. If you’re charged with something like battery or domestic battery, the state might seek a no-contact order to protect the alleged victim. We can contest this at the initial hearing, potentially bringing the protected person to court to argue against the order. Without immediate legal action, these orders can remain in place for months, complicating your life significantly.
Navigating Legal Terms and Procedures
At the initial hearing, the court will review the charges against you and explain your rights. This can be overwhelming due to the legal jargon involved. Terms like “omnibus date” might mean nothing to you but are critical to your case. An attorney can clarify these terms, ensure you understand the potential penalties, and help expedite the process, so you’re not stuck in court longer than necessary.
Meeting Deadlines and Filing Defenses
There are strict deadlines for filing certain defenses, such as self-defense or necessity, where you argue that your actions were justified under the circumstances. Missing these deadlines can severely impact your case. Hiring an attorney early ensures all necessary paperwork is filed on time, preserving your right to present these defenses.
Avoiding Public Exposure
Many clients prefer to keep their charges private and not have them read aloud in a courtroom full of people. An attorney can request to waive the reading of charges, protecting your privacy. Even if we can’t waive the initial hearing, we can still mitigate the exposure.
Comprehensive Case Management
From day one, having an attorney means having an advocate who will manage all aspects of your case, from the initial hearing through to the conclusion. We’re here to prevent procedural errors, protect your rights, and work toward the best possible outcome.
Make The Right Call
The initial hearing is a crucial stage in your legal journey, setting the tone for what’s to come. Hiring an attorney before this hearing isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential. We’re committed to being there for you from the start, ready to protect your rights and ensure the best possible handling of your case.
If you’re facing charges and have an initial hearing coming up, don’t wait. Call the Marc Lopez Law Firm at 317-632-3642, and remember—always plead the fifth!