How Much Should I Tell My Defense Attorney?

Maverick Ray Law
July 27, 2023

Talking to a Lawyer About Your Case

Most criminal defense lawyers need to know as much as possible about your case in order to present the best legal defense. However, if you are facing criminal charges, you might be worried that if you tell your lawyer everything and even admit you are guilty, they might choose not to represent you - or worse yet, turn you in to the authorities. Before you decide to withhold information from your lawyer, here are some things you should know.

Are you currently facing criminal charges? Whether or not you actually committed the crime of which you have been accused, you need the assistance of a skilled criminal defense lawyer. At Maverick Ray & Associates, we are dedicated to providing you with the best possible legal defense. So if you or someone you love has been accused of a crime, contact our Houston criminal defense lawyers today. Reach out to us online or call (281) 672-8029 to arrange a free and confidential consultation.

How Much Does Your Attorney Want to Know?

A criminal defense attorney’s main goal is to get the best possible outcome for their client. However, every attorney has a different approach as to how best to do this. Most attorneys want their clients to tell them everything. This is because they feel they can’t properly defend their client without knowing all of the facts.

Some attorneys would rather NOT know everything. They don’t want the facts to limit their pursuit of a defense. These lawyers will say they just want to know what the prosecution knows - nothing more.

Other criminal defense lawyers assume all of their clients are guilty, believing that doing so helps them better evaluate the case against their client and, therefore, helps them present the best defense. If they assume their client is innocent, it might cause them to miss a more compelling argument and, in turn, prevent them from getting the most favorable outcome possible.

Can My Lawyer Turn Me In?

With a few exceptions, your attorney is required to maintain lawyer-client confidentiality. This means that he or she cannot reveal any oral or written statements you make to anyone, including prosecutors, family members, friends, and employers, without your consent. This also includes your lawyer’s oral or written statements about your case.

What Is the Attorney-Client Privilege?

Private and court-appointed attorneys are legally bound to maintain client confidentiality, even potential clients. The attorney-client privilege protects all oral and written communication from disclosure. The purpose is to allow clients to obtain confidential legal advice without fearing their statements will be used against them. The attorney-client privilege applies when:

  • The client or potential client communicated information to a lawyer.
  • They were seeking legal advice.
  • The client or potential client made the oral or written statements in confidence.

Should You Admit Guilt?

Again, attorneys typically want to know as much information about your case in order to provide you with the best defense possible. Without the facts, they simply can’t defend you to the best of their ability. This information also includes any admission of guilt.

Although it is natural to be hesitant to admit you are guilty, you must keep in mind that criminal defense lawyers regularly represent guilty clients. Our criminal justice system believes everyone is entitled to a fair defense -  not just people who are innocent. And it is your attorney’s responsibility to protect your freedom and ensure you get adequate legal representation whether or not you committed a crime.

Discuss Your Case with a Houston Criminal Defense Lawyer

Being accused of a crime is immensely frightening. Not knowing what your future holds is an extremely stressful experience. But keep in mind you don’t have to go through this process alone. A criminal defense lawyer can fight on your behalf, vehemently protecting your rights and freedom.
At Maverick Ray & Associates, we consider it our duty and purpose to defend our clients against serious accusations. With our years of experience and long-standing relationships with local prosecutors and judges, we have earned a reputation for getting our clients’ charges reduced and even dismissed. So when you need expert legal representation, reach out to our criminal defense lawyers in Houston. Contact us online or call (281) 672-8029 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.