Prepare for your first meeting
Your first meeting with a criminal defense lawyer can be stressful. There can be a lot riding on the line, time is not only costly, but important for building a defense for your case, and you are not alone in the boat if you are not sure what to do.
Bring Key Documents & Evidence
- Arrest records, charge sheet, and police reports
- Relevant evidence: photos, videos, medical/accident records
- Witness names and contact info
Be Prepared to Explain the Facts
- Your lawyer will ask you to:
- Describe the events leading to your charge and arrest
- Detail any interactions with law enforcement (e.g., search, questioning)
- Provide background info (employment, legal history, family circumstance)
Ask Smart, Essential Questions
- What defenses apply in my case?
- What outcomes are realistic?
- What can I do to help my defense?
- What fees and billing structure apply?
- What’s the case timeline and my expected involvement?
Your Rights Against Unreasonable Searches
You are not allowed to Physically stop police from an unreasonable search and seizure, but giving them permission means you are forfeiting that right. You may not be able to interfere, but you can always say no and refuse consent.
- Police must have a warrant or probable cause to search your home or personal effects—exceptions apply.
- For traffic stops, they need reasonable suspicion to justify a stop, and probable cause to search your vehicle .
- Always politely refuse consent if asked: “I do not consent to a search.”
Understand the Fee Structure
- Montana rules prohibit contingent fees in criminal cases — payment is usually hourly or flat-fee
- Ask upfront if retainer fees apply, how often billing updates are provided, and what happens if your case drags on.
Expect Next Steps & Timeline
- Get a case file and evidence for review
- Identify and file key motions (e.g., bail, suppression)
- Schedule your arraignment or next court appearance
- Provide a roadmap of what’s next and what you can do in the meantime
Make the Most of It
- Be transparent — your lawyer is there to help, not judge
- Bring anything relevant — even small details can aid your defense
- Treat this meeting as a foundation for trust and strategy
Charged With a Crime in Montana? We’re Here to Help.
If you’ve been charged with a crime—whether a misdemeanor, felony, or federal offense—your future is on the line. At Maldonado Law, PLLC, we bring over a decade of criminal defense experience to every case. We fight hard to protect your rights, minimize penalties, and secure the best outcome possible.
If you’ve been charged with a crime in Montana, you have the constitutional right to legal representation—and you need a defense attorney who will fight for your rights at every stage of the legal process.
