Posted on September 19, 2025 in Criminal Defense

What to Expect at an Initial Legal Consultation

If you’ve been arrested in Phoenix, AZ, you may be worried about jail time, your job, your family, and what the future holds—even more so if you’re innocent. An essential first step you can take is meeting with a Phoenix criminal defense attorney.

That first meeting—often called an initial consultation—can feel intimidating if you don’t know what to expect. But in reality, it’s an opportunity for you to take control of your situation and ask any questions you have. 

Here’s what typically happens and how you can make the most of it.

Overview of an Initial Legal Consultation in Phoenix

Think of the consultation as a two-way street. Yes, the attorney is evaluating your case, but you’re also deciding if this is someone you can trust with your future. You’ll share your story, ask questions, and get a clearer picture of what lies ahead.

Even if you don’t hire the lawyer right away, the information you gather can help you make more confident choices.

What to Bring With You to a Consultation

The more details you provide, the more helpful your consultation will be. 

If you can, gather:

• Court papers or charging documents
• Bail or bond information
• Police reports, tickets, or any paperwork you’ve received
• A simple timeline of events, written in your own words
• A list of people who might serve as witnesses
• A few questions you want to ask the lawyer 

Don’t stress if you don’t have everything. Bring what you do have and be ready to explain the situation in your own words.

What Happens During an Initial Legal Consultation?

Most criminal defense consultations follow a simple flow:

1. Your Story Comes First – The lawyer will ask questions about your arrest, what was said, and what evidence exists.
2. Your Rights Are Explained – You’ll hear about your constitutional protections and what options are available under Arizona law.
3. Next Steps in the Process – The lawyer may walk you through what to expect at arraignment, preliminary hearings, and beyond.
4. Possible Defenses – Depending on what you share, the attorney may outline potential strategies or weaknesses.
5. Your Questions Answered – From fees to trial experience, this is your chance to learn about the lawyer’s approach.

Everything you say is confidential. That means you can be completely honest, even if you feel embarrassed or scared.

What Your Lawyer Needs from You

A strong defense depends on honesty. 

Be prepared to:

• Share all the details you remember, even the uncomfortable ones
• Hand over any documents, no matter how minor they seem
• Talk openly about your background, including prior arrests or convictions

Your lawyer isn’t there to judge you. They’re there to help you.

How to Make the Most of Your Time

To leave your consultation with clarity, try this:

• Jot down your biggest questions before the meeting
• Bring a notebook or use your phone to take notes
• Be candid—the more open you are, the better the advice you’ll get
• Listen closely when the lawyer explains how the process works

The goal is to walk out of the office with a clearer idea of your options and what hiring that lawyer would look like.

Red Flags to Watch for When Choosing a Phoenix Criminal Defense Lawyer

It’s important to talk about what to do, but it’s just as important to know what to avoid. During your consultation, pay attention to how the lawyer interacts with you. 

Warning signs include:

• Guaranteeing an outcome – No lawyer can promise to “get charges dropped” or “keep you out of jail.”
• Rushing you through the meeting – You deserve time to ask questions and feel heard.
• Not explaining fees clearly – If payment is confusing or vague, that could mean problems later.
• Talking more about themselves than your case – The focus should be on your situation, not the lawyer’s sales pitch.

Trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is. The consultation is as much about finding the right fit as it is about legal strategy.

Contact Orent Law Offices Today for a Free Consultation With a Phoenix Criminal Defense Attorney

That first meeting with a criminal defense lawyer can feel like a turning point. By showing up prepared, asking the right questions, and staying alert for red flags, you’ll know whether the attorney sitting across from you is someone you can trust. 

At Orent Law Offices, we know being charged with a crime is one of the scariest times in a person’s life. You’ll need a lawyer on your side with experience and proven results. Attorney Craig Orent is a Board Certified Specialist with over 34 years of experience in criminal defense law.

Give us a call at (480) 656-7301 or visit our law office at 11811 N Tatum Blvd UNIT 3031, Phoenix, AZ 85028. We offer a free case evaluation, so get the help you deserve today.