When you've been charged with a crime, it's imperative that you hire a qualified criminal defense attorney to act as your advocate. Walking into that courtroom alone and without help is one of the worst things you could do for your case and could lead to severe consequences.

In addition to hiring professional help, however, you must regularly communicate with and work with your criminal defense attorney, ideally from the moment you're arrested to the moment you stand in front of the judge. If communicating with an attorney is new to you or you're feeling unsure of how to act, don't worry. A few simple tips will get you through and will help you to make the most of the attorney-client relationship.

Always Return Calls

First things first, if your attorney calls or otherwise contacts you with a question about your case or for some other reason, always respond as promptly as possible. Ideally, you should even schedule calls and communications ahead of time and then make sure you are available so that you never have to play phone tag.

Remember that attorneys are incredibly busy people. If they can't get in touch with you, and you don't make an effort to respond, they may have to start preparing for your case without your input and without all the information they need. Don't hurt your own case by failing to respond to and maintain communication with your attorney.

Come to Meetings Prepared

When you schedule a meeting with your attorney, you want to prepare properly for this meeting. For instance, your attorney may ask you to bring something, such as paperwork or documentation. Organize any required paperwork, and don't forget to have it ready to go prior to your meeting.

Additionally, if there are questions you want to address during the meeting, prepare those ahead of time, too. That way, you won't forget anything and can ensure that you get everything out of your meeting with your lawyer that you possibly can.

Know What to Say

Finally, before your court date, make sure you are completely clear on what, if anything, your lawyer wants you to say in court. Your lawyer will likely give you a full plan of action ahead of time, but if you have any questions or wish to clarify anything, do it before you go to court. Everything you say and do in a courtroom can affect your case, so you definitely want to know and follow the advice given by your lawyer closely with no slip-ups and no doubts.

A criminal defense lawyer is your most valuable asset when you've been charged with a crime. Make the most of that asset by following these foolproof communication tips. Chances are that, if you do, the outcome of your case is more likely to be in your favor.