If you are arrested or under investigation, it is very important to remember that you do have the right to an attorney, whether the attorney is a public defender or if you hire your own attorney. A lawyer is not required in any legal proceeding, but it would be certainly be in your best interest to have someone who is trained and experienced in the nuances of defending criminal cases to make sure your rights are protected to the full extent of the law. In the same way that you can set your own broken leg instead of consulting a doctor, it is possible, but not a good idea.

There are some things to keep in mind if you have been arrested or are under investigation:

	Don’t make any statements to law enforcement officers until you have an attorney.
	Hire an attorney as soon as possible to make sure your rights are protected and you get the best outcome possible.
	If the bond is set too high, an attorney may be able to get it reduced to a more manageable amount.
	It may not necessary to use a bail bondsmen. An attorney may be able to arrange for your release either on your own recognizance or through property bonds.
	An attorney may be able to intervene in the process early on to avoid criminal prosecution.

The question is not whether you can afford a lawyer, but whether you can afford not to have one. The justice system is very unforgiving and there are no second chances. Make sure that the choices you make are the right ones. My fees are reasonable, fair, and in accordance with the level of offense and time your case will require. Rather than make a blanket assertion of fees, I prefer to consider the full circumstances and work with clients to arrive at a fee that is appropriate for each case.

The law divides criminal offenses into two types: felonies and misdemeanors. In general, misdemeanors are “minor” offenses, requiring jail time of less than a year. Felonies, on the other hand, are considered “major” offenses and can range from a third offense DUI / DWI to murder. A felony conviction means you no longer have the right to vote, hold public office, or possess firearms.

Michael A. Fiser provides skillful representation for clients located throughout the State of Louisiana (including the communities of Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Shreveport, Alexandria, Monroe, Lake Charles, Lafayette, Covington, and all of the surrounding areas) and the State of Mississippi (including the communities of Jackson, Vicksburg, Natchez, Woodville, and all of the surrounding areas).