Second Opinions

Before you make a decision, make sure nothing was overlooked.

The strongest legal opinions can withstand scrutiny

• Was anything overlooked? A fresh review may identify issues, assumptions, or opportunities that deserve another look.
• What options remain? A second opinion may reveal legal or strategic options that deserve consideration.
• Does the analysis hold? The strongest legal opinions can withstand scrutiny. Test the evidence, assumptions, and conclusions before accepting them.

A second opinion is simply an independent review of your case. You do not need permission from your lawyer. You do not need to replace your lawyer. You may seek a second opinion at any stage of a criminal case.

The facts change. The questions often don't.

• My lawyer wants me to take a plea. Before accepting a conviction, I want to understand my options.
• The evidence doesn't make sense. There are gaps, inconsistencies, or unanswered questions.
• I'm thinking about changing lawyers. I want to know whether the problem is the strategy, the evidence, or the lawyer.
• A motion was denied. I want to know whether the ruling was correct and what options remain.
• Important questions remain. I need answers before making a decision.
• I'm considering an appeal. I want to know whether errors occurred and what can still be done.

Before you make a decision, make sure nothing was overlooked.

How deep should the review go?

Start here — Strategy Session

A focused consultation for clients who want answers before making important decisions. Questions often include: Should I accept this plea offer? Does the current strategy make sense? Am I asking the right questions? Is a deeper review warranted?

Step two — Record Review

When the answers require more than a conversation. An independent review of reports, discovery, motions, transcripts, and other case materials. Questions often include: Does the discovery support the theory of the case? Were important issues overlooked? Where is the case vulnerable? What opportunities remain?

Step three — Evidence Review

When the conclusions depend on the evidence itself. An independent review of body camera video, witness interviews, forensic evidence, digital evidence, and other critical materials. Questions often include: What does the evidence actually show? Does the evidence support the conclusions? Do the conclusions follow from the facts? Was anything overlooked?

Cases commonly reviewed

• Murder and Manslaughter — death alone isn't the crime.
• Drug Cases — finding drugs isn't enough.
• Sex Crimes — accusations are not enough evidence.
• Aggravated Assault — the accusation isn't the analysis.
• Weapons and Guns — ownership isn't always enough.
• Vehicular Manslaughter — the collision isn't the conclusion.
• DUI — the number doesn't end the inquiry.
• Vehicular Assault — injury alone isn't enough.
• Appeals & Post-Conviction — intervene before the story hardens.