FAQs about Criminal Law and Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney

What if I am under investigation but have not yet been charged with a crime? Should I consult an attorney?

Yes. It is never too early to talk to a lawyer who can protect your rights during a criminal investigation. In fact, an aggressive attorney may be able to prevent an investigation from proceeding to an indictment.

Consulting with an experienced attorney during the early stages of an investigation can make a tremendous difference in the end result in many ways, including:

• Advising you whether to give statements to investigators or allow warrantless searches of your property
• Obtaining information about the investigation so that you can make intelligent decisions on how to proceed
• Convincing investigators and prosecutors not to go forward
• Presenting your case to the grand jury, urging it not to return and indictment against you
• Helping you avoid the embarrassment of a public arrest if charges are filed

Please note: contrary to what law enforcement officers may imply, you can not be compelled to give a statement to the police or answer any questions. Moreover, any statement you make can and absolutely will be used against you. In addition, it is almost never advisable to allow the police or other investigators to search your property or premises without a warrant.

If you are suspected of committing a crime and need the solid advice of an aggressive and knowledgeable defense attorney, contact the Dallas office of Sindhu Alexander Stovall today. Let her protect your rights before it is too late.

How do I know which attorney is right for me?

When you are charged with a criminal case your entire future is on the line. First, your very liberty may be at stake since many serious offenses carry punishment ranges up to life in prison. Second, a criminal conviction can prevent you from getting the job or home you want by causing you to fail a background check.

With your freedom, reputation, and future at stake, you don't want to hire the wrong attorney. In searching for the right attorney, keep in mind that you are paying for her knowledge, experience, and trial skills. This is not the time to shop for bargains.

In evaluating whether an attorney is right for you here are some points to consider:

1. Does the attorney specialize in criminal defense?
2. Is the attorney board certified in criminal law?
3. How much experience does the attorney have with your type of case?
4. Will the attorney take the time to explain things thoroughly to you so you understand what you are facing?
5. Will the attorney make time to meet with you and take your phone calls so you are kept informed?
6. Beware of attorneys that guarantee a certain result or claim to have special influence with the courts or the prosecution.

Contact the Dallas office of Sindhu Alexander Stovall to discuss the particulars of your case and to decide for yourself that she is the criminal defense attorney you can trust to fight for you when conviction is not an option.

Is there any benefit to hiring a former prosecutor to defend me?

Yes, there often is. Former prosecutors have invaluable experience and perspective which can be priceless assets in defending your case. In addition to trial skills, a former prosecutor's reputation and relationships to the opposing side can put you, the client, at an advantage.

Sindhu Alexander Stovall was a felony prosecutor in Dallas County and maintains her reputation for successfully trying tough cases. Her experience has proven invaluable time and time again and she has been recognized by clients, colleagues and judges for her professionalism and trial skills.

Is hiring a board certified specialist really that important?

You decide. Only a small percentage of Texas attorneys are certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in a particular area of law. Many otherwise competent lawyers are not able to meet the rigorous requirements to become board certified criminal defense specialists. Only attorneys whose skills and specific knowledge are recognized as exceptional can become board certified.

When your life, liberty, and future are on the line, don't you want the representation of an exceptional, board certified criminal defense specialist attorney like Sindhu Alexander Stovall?