With the court date arriving soon, it’s imperative to prepare your client for what to expect. Presentation matters as it creates a persona, and the judge and jury watch the defendant’s every move. Get a leg up by getting your client ready. Go over the following four things.
1. The Judge’s Expectations
Give your client the 411 on the presiding judge. The official may have certain expectations for the courtroom. It is in that person’s second home. Particular behaviors or dress may be expected. Discuss previous events that highlight the judge’s personality and provide an example of what could happen if you don’t keep the official pleased.
2. How To Stay Positive
Your client’s mentality is essential. You want to keep them calm and upbeat. That means providing a secure and relaxing environment. Jail may not be that. Work to get your client released, collaborating with a place specializing in Lackawanna County Bail Bonds. While out, talk to your accused about seeing the positives and making the right choices.
3. Review the Case
Talk to your client as you and your firm work through the evidence. Ask about each piece, going over how things point to innocence or guilt. Introduce your plan to present information in court and the order in which things proceed.
Don’t hide your point of view or case story. Share with your client how you plan to approach the case. Discuss how to tie it all together and ensure your client understands how vital information is to gaining freedom.
4. Practice Answering Questions
Go through practice drills. Chances are your client has never taken the stand before. That experience may create tension or anxiety. You don’t want those emotions coming out before the judge and jury. Running through the experience several times could help you and your client feel better about the upcoming proceedings.
Don’t just focus on how to answer. Talk about behaviors, tone and mannerisms. Plan out dress, creating a look that shows professionalism and reduces negative impressions.
There is a lot in court, but at the center of it all is your client. People will pay attention to who sits next to you, and they may judge whether they like your client or not. It’s essential, therefore, that the defendant knows what to expect before walking through those doors. You and your team can feel prepared and ready to tackle the case with that background knowledge.