Do I need an attorney?
Potential clients often ask “Why do I need an attorney?” or “Is this something I could do on my own?”
The short answer is: Sure, of course you could try to do it on your own! But, should you? No.
What happens when I get to Court?
The court system is designed for attorneys, it is much harder to navigate on your own.
When you arrive for your court date, depending on which court room your case is scheduled in, you must sit and wait for the calendar to be called. When the prosecutor calls your name you will be expected to answer with how you plan to resolve your case. Once you answer that calendar call, the waiting begins. It could be hours before the prosecutor has time to talk with you about your case.
If you tell the prosecutor you want to plea guilty to your charge, they often do not reduce your charge to the best possible reduction. You need an attorney to advocate for the best possible reduction to prevent punishments like jail time, probation, or insurance increase - if it is a traffic charge.
If you tell the prosecutor you want to have a trial, you should prepare to wait several more hours. After which, you will likely be told you must go home and come back on another day. The court system is incredibly bogged down with cases. Cases set for trial often take months to actually be called for trial. Attorney Kristi Haddock will help you weigh the pros and cons of having a trial, and may be able to appear on your behalf (saving you from missing a day of work) on non-trial dates.
How do I resolve my DMV issue?
The DMV is no easier to navigate. It can be nearly impossible to get someone on the phone to discuss your license suspension issue. Agents who work at local DMV offices don’t often have the answer to your questions. A DMV attorney like Kristi Haddock has some direct lines to DMV hearing officers, and also knows what questions to ask once she gets the right person on the phone.
If you are required to have an in-person DMV hearing, you often must bring witnesses with you to that hearing. If you do not ask the right questions of your witnesses, or they provide confusing information to the hearing officer your license could be in jeopardy. DMV attorney, Kristi Haddock knows what questions should be asked, and can help prepare you and your witnesses for a successful hearing.
As with many things in life, you “can” do it on your own. But very often, it is better to leave it to someone who knows what they are doing.
Attorney Kristi Haddock handles criminal misdemeanors, felonies and traffic tickets in Wake County, Chatham County, Lee County, Durham County and Harnett County. Kristi also handles DMV hearings and license restoration issues across central and eastern North Carolina. Call Attorney Kristi Haddock at 919-335-5656 for a FREE consultation.