What is your PLAN to make this case go away BEFORE the trial? (The BIG money in cases for lawyers is in GOING to trial.) What is the lawyer's PLAN to make the allegations go away NOW?

Who do you use as experts?

What kind of evidence do we need to show the "system" that I didn't do this?

How much will this cost? (A realistic estimate should be given for TOTAL costs. Not $500 to start.)

How long will it take to make the various stages of the case?

What information do you have for me so that I can assist you in the preparation of my case? (Look for request for a time line, biography, and witness list) Look also for studies so that you can understand what is important to your case and why.

What should we do with the media? (Stay away from it.)

Should we use a trial consultant? (The best lawyers DO!)

What is your PLAN in case we HAVE to go to trial? (An experienced lawyer should have a general idea of a game plan if he has done many similar cases.)

What do you think about a plea bargain? (Avoid any lawyer who talks of plea bargains unless you are guilty.)