Defense of a criminal case begins from the time of the arrest. Some of the most important and far reaching developments in the facts of a criminal case take place at the time of and shortly after the arrest takes place. The early intervention of a defense attorney into the arrest procedure and activity can greatly increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome in the case.

Some people feel that the an attorney is not necessary until after the arraignment, which is the  first appearance that the defendant makes before a Judge. Critical decisions are made at the time of arraignment, which include the amount of bail (if any); questions as to license suspension; and  timing  of the next Court date. Furthermore, requests for preservation of evidence in favor of the Defendant can be made at the time of the arraignment as well as requests for hearings on such important items as orders of protection and  release of property.