In Utah, it’s common for criminal defense attorneys to offer free initial consultations. While this practice can provide some comfort to those facing criminal charges, the reality is often less reassuring.
The Reality Behind Free Consultations
Many free consultations are, in fact, cleverly disguised sales pitches. Quality attorneys, who are often pressed for time, aren’t eager to give away free legal advice. So why offer a free consultation? The goal is typically to capitalize on the anxiety that comes with criminal charges, encouraging you to hire them on the spot. Unfortunately, these free consultations often focus more on persuading you to sign up than on providing real legal guidance.
The Risks of Going It Alone
Some individuals try to use free consultations as a way to avoid hiring an attorney altogether. They gather advice during the free session and then attempt to negotiate with prosecutors on their own. This approach is risky, especially if you’re seeking a favorable outcome in your case. Even attorneys know better than to represent themselves when facing charges—there’s wisdom in the saying, “A person who represents themselves has a fool for a lawyer.”
Why We Charge $50 for Consultations
At Stone River Law, we believe that charging a modest fee of $50 for an initial consultation ensures you’re getting real value, not just a sales pitch. When you pay for a consultation, you’re investing in a focused, informative session where our priority is providing you with quality legal advice, not just convincing you to hire us.
This doesn’t mean we’re not interested in representing you. On the contrary, it means that our time together will be spent discussing your case, addressing your concerns, and offering genuine legal insights—whether you choose to work with us or decide on another path.
Conclusion
Your legal consultation should be more than just a pitch. By choosing Stone River Law, you’re opting for a meaningful, professional consultation that prioritizes your needs and helps you make informed decisions about your legal future.