In many counties, the time between arrest and the initial court appearance can be at least several weeks. Sometimes, several months. Too often, those charged with criminal offenses show up for the first court date only to ask the judge for additional time to talk to an attorney. Then, they cross their fingers and hope the court grants some additional time.
Why wait? Don’t lose the time between being charged with a crime and the first court appearance. There may be witnesses to interview; evidence to gather; or, legal research to be done.
Don’t start your defense behind the 8-ball. Preparing a defense to your case is critical. It’s your life and your liberty. Don’t play catch-up because you didn’t give your attorney adequate time to prepare your defense. Sometimes, the best defense is by going on offense and that may take some time.
Tommy Santel is a co-founding partner of Santel | Garner. Tommy is a former government prosecutor. He is a Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 31 General Civil Mediator. Tommy’s practice areas include criminal defense and civil litigation.
This blog is made available by Santel | Garner for educational purposes only as well as to provide general information and a general overview of the law, not provide specific legal advice. By using this blog and website, you understand that there is no attorney-client relationship between you and Santel | Garner . This blog and website should not be used as a substitute for competent legal advice from a licensed attorney in your state.