Meeting With Your Attorney

During your first court appearance, the judge will determine whether you’re eligible to receive the services of the Public Defender. Once the court concludes you are eligible to receive the services of the Public Defender, the judge will appoint the Public Defender to provide representation. Do not discuss the details of your case with anyone other than your attorney.

Deputy Public Defenders possess experience representing clients in almost every type of criminal case. Deputy Public Defenders leverage this experience to assist you throughout the duration of your case. Because you will be required to make decisions about your matter, the Deputy Public Defender will assist you by providing advice about the legal ramifications of those decisions. To aid your attorney, you should carefully consider the following.

Once the court appoints the Public Defender to represent you, a Deputy Public Defender will be assigned to your case. Before an attorney meets with you, the attorney will analyze and review your case. In the event you are incarcerated within the jail, an attorney will visit you within a few days of your initial court appearance. Do not discuss the details of your case on the phone or during visiting. If you are not in custody, you must contact our office (530/245-7598) to schedule an appointment with your attorney. Establishing and maintaining early and consistent communication is important to effectively prepare your case for court.

To facilitate a productive meeting with your attorney, you should provide names, addresses, phone numbers, and additional contact information for any witnesses to the case. Furthermore, you should, if possible, give the location of places in which you received medical or mental health treatment and a copy of any relevant medical or mental health records. You must also be prepared to discuss the facts of your case. Many clients find it beneficial to write down the questions they plan to ask the attorney prior to the meeting.