If you have been charged with a crime in Denver, the first step before hiring an attorney is a free consultation. Done well, the consultation gives you a real understanding of your case, the likely outcomes, and what representation will cost. Done poorly, it is just a sales pitch. This guide explains what a quality criminal defense consultation should include and how to get the most out of it.
What to bring (or be ready to discuss)
- Citation, summons, or arrest paperwork.
- Bond papers and conditions of release.
- Police report (if you have it — many people do not, and that is OK).
- Court date and location.
- Any communications from the prosecutor or victim.
- Basic timeline of what happened in your own words.
- Your immigration status, if applicable.
- Any prior criminal history.
What a good consultation includes
- Case review: The attorney listens to your version of events without judgment.
- Charge analysis: Explanation of the specific charges, their elements, and possible penalties.
- Defense identification: What defenses might apply — illegal stop, illegal search, lack of evidence, witness credibility, mistaken identity.
- Outcome scenarios: Best case, likely case, worst case — based on the specific facts.
- Strategy: The attorney's approach — pre-trial motions, plea negotiations, deferred judgment, trial.
- Timeline: How long the case will take and what hearings to expect.
- Fee discussion: Specific cost range and payment options.
- Time for your questions.
Quality consultations take 30-60 minutes. If you are in and out in 5 minutes, that is a sales call, not a consultation.
Special considerations for non-citizens
If you are not a U.S. citizen, the consultation must address immigration consequences. A guilty plea that seems minor under criminal law can:
- Trigger automatic deportation.
- Bar future green card or citizenship applications.
- Block specific waivers.
An attorney without immigration knowledge can give you advice that destroys your immigration case. Always ask: "How does this affect my immigration status?"
Questions to ask the attorney
- How many cases like mine have you handled?
- What outcomes have you achieved in similar cases?
- Will you personally handle my case, or pass it to associates?
- What is your fee structure — flat fee, hourly, or contingent on complexity?
- What does the fee include? (Trial fees, motion fees, sentencing fees often differ.)
- What is your strategy if the prosecution offers a plea?
- Are you available for questions during the case?
- What happens if there is an appeal?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the consultation truly free?
At Novo Legal Group, yes. Some firms charge for consultations — confirm before scheduling.
What if I cannot afford the attorney's fee?
Most criminal defense firms offer payment plans. Public defenders are also an option for those who qualify financially.
Can I bring a family member?
Yes. Most attorneys welcome family members for support. Note that conversations with family present may waive attorney-client privilege for those parts of the conversation.
How soon after charges should I have a consultation?
As soon as possible — ideally within days. Early action preserves evidence, protects your rights, and prevents bad statements to police.
Schedule your free consultation
Novo Legal Group offers free criminal defense consultations in Denver, with bilingual attorneys and immigration cross-training for non-citizen clients. Call 1 (888) 746-5245.
Related: Criminal Defense Hub, Deportation Defense.
