What to Expect When Consulting a Criminal Lawyer | Lawyer Talk Q&A

I’m digging deeper into what it’s really like to consult with a lawyer—especially when it comes to criminal defense. I’ll walk you through a recent experience from my own practice, where a well-meaning inquiry turned into an intensive back-and-forth with countless emails and complex attachments.

This got me thinking about the fine line between offering initial guidance and the reality that, just like Abraham Lincoln said, a lawyer’s time is their stock in trade.

I’ll talk about how I try to strike a balance during consultations—being as helpful as possible without crossing into doing unpaid work, and why sometimes the expectations between lawyers and clients can get a little blurred. I’ll also share why, even in our Zoom-heavy world, I still value face-to-face meetings whenever possible.

Whether you’ve wondered what goes on behind the scenes or you’re thinking of engaging a lawyer yourself, I’ll give you an honest look at how to set reasonable expectations and get the most out of your legal consultation. Thanks for tuning in to Lawyer Talk!

Here are my top 3 takeaways:

• Boundaries Matter: While initial consultations are important, there’s a point where a lawyer moves from consulting to doing substantive work. Lawyers need to protect their time (their “stock in trade”), and clients should understand when reviewing extensive case materials may require formal engagement.
• Communication is Key: Misunderstandings can happen about what’s covered in a free consultation. Clear expectations—on both sides—help avoid frustration and ensure everyone is on the same page from the start.
• The Process Has Changed: The pandemic shifted the way lawyers and clients connect, with fewer in-person meetings and more reliance on digital communications. Nonetheless, a face-to-face meeting (even virtual) can still be an important step in building trust.

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? Call 614-859-2119 and leave us a voicemail. Steve will answer your question on the next podcast!

Submit your questions to www.lawyertalkpodcast.com.

Recorded at Channel 511.

Stephen E. Palmer, Esq. has been practicing criminal defense almost exclusively since 1995. He has represented people in federal, state, and local courts in Ohio and elsewhere.

Though he focuses on all areas of criminal defense, he particularly enjoys complex cases in state and federal courts.

He has unique experience handling and assembling top defense teams of attorneys and experts in cases involving allegations of child abuse (false sexual allegations, false physical abuse allegations), complex scientific cases involving allegations of DUI and vehicular homicide cases with blood alcohol tests, and any other criminal cases that demand jury trial experience.

Steve has unique experience handling numerous high-publicity cases that have garnered national attention.

For more information about Steve and his law firm, visit Palmer Legal Defense.

Copyright 2025 Stephen E. Palmer - Attorney At Law

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