What to Ask During a Consultation Before Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney
Zach Baber • June 6, 2025
When you’re facing criminal charges, choosing the right defense attorney is one of the most important decisions you’ll make.
Whether you're in Columbia City, Warsaw, Albion, or Huntington, Indiana, your attorney will be the person guiding you through court, protecting your rights, and helping you move forward.
But how do you know who the right attorney is?
Here are some of the most important questions to ask during a criminal defense consultation:
1. Have You Handled Cases Like Mine Before?
Tip: Ask how those past cases turned out and what the biggest challenges were. Attorneys won't be able to divulge attorney/client privilege, but they should be able to tell you what to expect in that county by using past cases as guidance.
2. What’s Your Experience in This County?
In places like Whitley County, Kosciusko County, or Noble County, familiarity with local procedures and people can make a difference in how your case is handled.
3. What’s Your Communication Style?
5. What Happens Next?
6. What Are Your Fees?
Is it a flat fee, hourly, or retainer?
Does it include trial representation?
Are payment plans available?
Final Thoughts: Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
📍 Need criminal defense in Whitley County or surrounding areas?
Baber & Baber, P.C. is based in Columbia City and proudly serves Northeast Indiana.
This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
But how do you know who the right attorney is?
Most defense lawyers offer consultations, and that meeting isn’t just for the attorney to learn about your case.
The consultation is your chance to ask smart questions and make sure the person you’re hiring is experienced, responsive, and trustworthy.
Here are some of the most important questions to ask during a criminal defense consultation:
1. Have You Handled Cases Like Mine Before?
Experience matters, especially in criminal defense.
Ask if the attorney has represented clients facing similar charges (e.g., OWI, theft, drug possession, domestic battery).
A lawyer who’s familiar with your type of case will know what to expect and how to defend it effectively.
Tip: Ask how those past cases turned out and what the biggest challenges were. Attorneys won't be able to divulge attorney/client privilege, but they should be able to tell you what to expect in that county by using past cases as guidance.
2. What’s Your Experience in This County?
Every county in Indiana has its own way of doing things.
Ask if the attorney has experience practicing in the local courts, and whether they’ve worked with the judge or prosecutor assigned to your case.
In places like Whitley County, Kosciusko County, or Noble County, familiarity with local procedures and people can make a difference in how your case is handled.
3. What’s Your Communication Style?
You want an attorney who will keep you informed.
Ask:
- How often will I get updates?
- Will I hear from you directly or from your staff?
- How quickly do you respond to emails or calls?
A good attorney won’t make promises, but they should give you a realistic picture of:
- Best-case scenario
- Worst-case scenario
- Most likely outcomes based on local practices
5. What Happens Next?
If you decide to hire the attorney, ask them to walk you through the next steps:
- Will you go to court with me?
- What paperwork is needed?
- What’s your timeline for building the defense?
6. What Are Your Fees?
Always ask how the attorney charges and what that fee includes.
Is it a flat fee, hourly, or retainer?
Does it include trial representation?
Are payment plans available?
Final Thoughts: Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
This is your future. Your freedom. Your name.
We always tell our potential clients during the consultation that this is a two-way interview.
You deserve an attorney who takes your case seriously and treats you with respect.
Asking the right questions during your consultation helps you make a confident, informed decision.
At Baber & Baber, we believe every client should feel heard and supported from day one.
Whether you're in Columbia City, Warsaw, Albion, or anywhere in Northeast Indiana, make sure you hire someone who’s ready to fight for you and walk with you.
📍 Need criminal defense in Whitley County or surrounding areas?
Baber & Baber, P.C. is based in Columbia City and proudly serves Northeast Indiana.
This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
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If it happened in Columbia City, South Whitley, or anywhere else in Whitley County, understanding what to expect can help ease anxiety and protect your future. This article breaks down what an OWI charge means, what happens next, and how to move forward. What Is an OWI in Indiana? In Indiana, OWI (also known as DUI in some states) generally means operating a vehicle while: Your blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08% or higher You are under the influence of drugs or alcohol You have a Schedule I or II controlled substance in your system There are also enhanced penalties for BAC levels of 0.15% or higher or if a minor was in the car at the time of arrest. What Happens After an OWI Arrest in Whitley County? Arrest and Booking You will most likely be arrested on the spot, taken to the Whitley County Jail, and required to submit to a chemical test. License Suspension Failing a chemical test typically leads to an administrative license suspension. Refusing the test can lead to a longer license suspension. Initial Hearing Within days of your arrest, you’ll attend an initial hearing at Whitley Superior Court where charges are formally read. You’ll plead guilty or not guilty (most people plead not guilty at this stage, even if they intend to resolve the case). Pre-Trial Conference Usually scheduled 4 to 8 weeks later. This is when your attorney may negotiate with the prosecutor about plea agreements or alternative resolutions. Possible Outcomes Diversion or deferral programs (especially for first-time offenders) Plea agreement (reduced charges or penalties) Trial (if no agreement is reached) Potential Penalties for OWI in Indiana Penalties vary depending on the facts of the case and your prior history. Here are some possibilities: Jail time Community service Drug and alcohol counseling Additional license suspensions Fines, Court costs, and fees Will I Definitely Lose My License? Possibly. License suspension is one of the most common consequences. However, your attorney may be able to help you: Request specialized driving privileges (formerly known as hardship licenses) Challenge the suspension Reduce the length of suspension through a plea agreement Should You Get a Lawyer for an OWI in Whitley County? Yes. The stakes are high, and the process is complex. A defense attorney can: Review the legality of the stop and arrest Negotiate for reduced penalties or diversion Represent you in hearings and trial Help protect your license and minimize long-term consequences Final Thoughts An OWI arrest in Whitley County doesn’t have to define you. With the right legal support, it’s possible to move forward, protect your rights, and limit the impact on your future. If you’re facing OWI charges, educate yourself and seek guidance early. Baber & Baber, P.C. is based in Columbia City and serves clients across Whitley County and Northeast Indiana. Call 260.244.4422 or click here to schedule a consultation . Whitley County OWI Defense | Columbia City Criminal Lawyers | Northeast Indiana DUI Attorneys This article is not meant as specific legal advice and is only meant as general education.
Whether you're facing a misdemeanor or a Level 6 felony, knowing the process can help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary mistakes. Step 1: Arrest and Booking Most cases start with an arrest. You’ll likely be taken to the Whitley County Jail for booking, where your fingerprints, photo, and information will be collected. Depending on the charge and circumstances, you may be released on bond or you may remain in custody until your first court date. Step 2: Initial Hearing This is your first appearance in front of a judge. It usually happens within a few days of your arrest. Here’s what typically happens during an initial hearing in Whitley Superior Court: Formal reading of your charges Advisement of your rights Opportunity to enter a plea (almost always “Not Guilty” at this stage—even if you did it) Opportunity to ask for a public defender or inform the court that you’ll hire your own attorney Bond review or request for bond reduction, especially if you're still in jail Why plead “Not Guilty”? Even if you believe you’re guilty, entering a "Not Guilty" plea preserves your ability to: Review the evidence against you Negotiate a potential plea deal Avoid waiving important rights too early Step 3: Pre-Trial Conference After the initial hearing, your case will be set for a pre-trial conference, usually 4 to 8 weeks later. This is a scheduled meeting between your defense attorney and the prosecutor to: Negotiate a plea agreement Discuss possible resolutions Exchange discovery (evidence) Decide whether the case will go to trial In some situations, if you’re representing yourself, you’ll speak directly with the prosecutor. This is one of the many reasons why having legal representation is strongly recommended. Step 4: Trial or Change of Plea If no agreement is reached at the pre-trial conference, one of two things may happen: Trial Date Set: You’ll prepare for trial and argue your case before a judge or jury. Change of Plea Hearing: If a plea deal is reached, this hearing will be scheduled for you to formally plead guilty in front of the judge and receive your sentence. There is also a chance a second pre-trial conference will be scheduled. These next steps are typically scheduled 4 to 8 weeks after your first pre-trial conference. Step 5: Sentencing and Court Obligations If you’re found guilty or take a plea deal, sentencing will occur either immediately or about a month later. After sentencing, the court may impose several conditions, which could include: Probation Mandatory counseling or classes Community service Fines and court costs No-contact orders Check-ins with a probation officer Random drug testing (in some cases) Failing to meet these conditions can result in a violation and possible jail time, so it's important to take them seriously. Final Thoughts The legal process in Whitley Superior Court can feel complex, but it follows a predictable structure. From arrest to resolution, each step gives you opportunities to protect your rights and work toward the best possible outcome. If you’ve been charged in Whitley County and aren’t sure what to do next, Baber & Baber, P.C. is here to help. We’ve represented hundreds (close to thousands) of clients in Whitley Superior Court and know how to navigate the system with strategy and care. 📍 Based in Columbia City | Serving Whitley County and Northeast Indiana 📞 Call 260.244.4422 or 🌐 Click here to schedule a consultation online. This article is not meant as specific legal advice and is only meant for general educational purposes.
