How a Defense Attorney Prepares for Criminal Trial
- Meason & Morris Law
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 15 minutes ago
Facing a criminal charge is a serious situation that can impact your freedom, future, and reputation. One of the most important steps you can take is hiring an experienced defense attorney to represent you. But what exactly does a defense attorney do to prepare for trial? What happens behind the scenes before you ever step into a courtroom?
At Meason & Morris Law, we believe every client deserves a strong, well-prepared defense. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the key steps a defense attorney takes to build your case and fight for the best possible outcome.
Understanding the Charges
The first thing a defense attorney does is carefully review the charges against you. This includes:
Reading the police report
Analyzing the criminal complaint or indictment
Reviewing any arrest records or citations
This helps your attorney understand the exact legal issues involved, what penalties you may face, and what must be proven for a conviction.
Meeting with You to Get Your Side of the Story
Your version of events matters. A defense attorney will meet with you to:
Understand what happened from your perspective
Learn about any witnesses or evidence that supports your side
Identify any issues with how you were arrested or treated by police
This conversation is completely confidential. The more honest and detailed you are, the better your attorney can prepare your defense.
Investigating the Evidence
Once your attorney knows the charges and your story, they begin investigating. This may include:
Reviewing bodycam or surveillance video
Requesting lab results or forensic reports
Examining photos, text messages, or social media
Interviewing witnesses
A defense attorney doesn’t just accept the prosecution’s evidence at face value. They look for errors, inconsistencies, or anything that could be challenged in court.
Filing Pretrial Motions
Before trial, your defense attorney may file legal motions that can affect the case. These may include:
Motions to suppress evidence (if it was obtained illegally)
Motions to dismiss the case (if there are legal flaws)
Motions for discovery (to gain access to evidence held by the prosecution)
These motions can shape the outcome of the trial before it even begins.
Building a Defense Strategy
No two cases are the same, so a defense attorney creates a custom strategy for your specific situation. This may involve:
Proving you didn’t commit the crime (actual innocence)
Showing there isn’t enough evidence to convict (reasonable doubt)
Arguing self-defense, mistaken identity, or other legal defenses
Negotiating a favorable plea deal if that’s in your best interest
Every move is designed to protect your rights and improve your chances of a positive outcome.
Preparing for Cross-Examination
During a criminal trial, the prosecution will call witnesses to testify against you. Your defense attorney must be ready to question these witnesses and challenge their credibility. This involves:
Researching each witness
Finding inconsistencies in their statements
Asking tough questions in court to expose the truth
A skilled cross-examination can often weaken the prosecution’s case significantly.
Getting You Ready for Trial
If your case goes to trial, your attorney will make sure you’re ready. This includes:
Explaining what to expect in court
Helping you understand courtroom procedures
Coaching you on how to behave and speak if you testify
Your attorney will also prepare opening statements, closing arguments, and questions for witnesses.
Staying in Constant Communication
Throughout the entire process, a good defense attorney keeps you informed. They will:
Update you on new developments
Explain your legal options
Help you make important decisions about your case
At Meason & Morris Law, we believe that informed clients are empowered clients. We make sure you know what’s going on every step of the way.
Negotiating When Appropriate
Not every case goes to trial. Sometimes, it’s in your best interest to resolve the case with a plea bargain. A defense attorney will:
Negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf
Try to reduce charges or penalties
Make sure any deal you accept is fair and clearly understood
Even if you decide to plead guilty, your attorney works to minimize the impact on your life.
Fighting for You in Court
When your day in court comes, your defense attorney will:
Present evidence and witnesses that support your defense
Challenge the prosecution’s case
Argue legal points before the judge
Deliver powerful opening and closing arguments
The goal is to convince the jury that there is reasonable doubt about your guilt or to secure the most favorable outcome possible.
Why Choose Meason & Morris Law
At Meason & Morris Law, we understand how stressful facing a criminal charge can be. That’s why we treat every client with respect and take every case seriously. Our defense attorneys are experienced, knowledgeable, and dedicated to fighting for your rights.
We don’t just go through the motions. We dig deep, prepare thoroughly, and stand by you at every turn.
Conclusion
Being charged with a crime doesn’t mean you’re guilty. A strong legal defense can make all the difference. A defense attorney does much more than show up in court—they investigate, strategize, and fight to protect your freedom.
If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in Oklahoma, contact Meason & Morris Law today. Let us help you take control of your case and your future.
Meason & Morris Law is a legal firm led by seasoned attorneys Marty Meason and Chris Morris. We provide a professional experience for all our clients, helping them navigate their legal rights. We focus on Criminal Justice Law (felonies and misdemeanors), Divorce and Family Law, Expungement and Felony Law, Probate Law and also have Trial experience. Serving Washington County, Nowata County, Osage County, Rogers County, Payne County, Pawnee County, and Kay County in Oklahoma.
Meason & Morris Law
515 Delaware Ave
Bartlesville, OK 74003
918-336-6300
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