Client Information | Law Office of Peter J. Todoro Jr., PC

Our Belief

Because of the sensitive nature of many of the cases we have handled, we take great pride in resolving criminal matters is a quiet and confidential manner. We realize that in many cases, the publicity surrounding a criminal investigation or the filing of criminal charges can be as damaging to our clients’ interests as a conviction. No decisions are made without considering all aspects of the case, including the collateral consequences surrounding a criminal disposition and the potential for publicity adverse to the client or the client’s business.

It is important to be prepared. The following lists are intended to provide information about preparing for client meetings and appearing in court.

10 Suggestions for a Successful Client Intake Meeting

It is very important for the client and the attorney to work together as a team in a DWI case. In order to get best possible result given the facts and circumstances surrounding the client's case, it would be helpful for the client to provide the following information to defense counsel if possible at the intake meeting.

Resume - Please bring a copy of current resume that lists your present employment, education, and any volunteer work.
Professional License - Copy of all professional licenses held by client. For example, the client should provide their attorney with copies of their teaching certificates, accounting license, nursing license etc. These licenses may be important in resolving the DWI case.
Prescriptions - Copies of all prescriptions for medications presently prescribed to the client.
Documents for Hardship License - The client may be eligible for a hardship license which is issued by the Court. Please discuss with the attorney the types of documents that will be helpful in making this motion.
Chronology or Time Line - It is important for the client to briefly outline the events surrounding their arrest by creating a time line. The time line is a summary of the events surrounding the DWI arrest. This document should be brought to the initial client intake meeting.
Photos- If there was an accident, please make certain to bring photos of vehicles involved along with a copy of any accident reports.
Traffic Tickets - Please make certain to bring your tickets and any other charges with you to the first meeting.
Come Prepared to Attorney / Client Meeting - It is helpful to write out any questions about your case in advance. This will ensure that your concerns and questions are fully answered.
Character Reference Letters - Please consider compiling a list of individuals who may be able to write a character reference letter on your behalf.
Review Law Office of Peter J. Todoro, Jr., PC Web Site - Our site has tremendous content on many topics. Please review the entire site especially the DWI news section for current topics that may apply to your case.

This list is merely a summary of activities and topics that need to be discussed with defense counsel but it should prove helpful in getting the defense started.

Client Considerations for Court Appearances

When going to court you may have several questions about your case and the reason for the up coming court appearance. The information below is very general and intended to provide suggestions you may wish to consider when getting ready to appear before the judge who is handling your case.

Be on Time for Court - Unless the attorneys are in another court and delayed, they will certainly do their best to be on time for your court appearance. If possible, given your schedule always try to be on time for court. If you will be delayed feel free to call your attorney and let them know so they can advise the court accordingly if it becomes necessary.
Bring your File to Court - We always try to provide our clients with a Law Office of Peter J. Todoro, Jr., PC attorney file folder. Please make certain to bring your file to court, so if you have questions about a document or the purpose of the Court proceeding you have your file available for review.
Understand the Purpose of the Court Appearance - Make certain that you understand the purpose of the court appearance. If you have a question, feel free to ask the attorney what is the purpose of the appearance. There are many reasons for court appearances including pretrial conferences, a status conference or a trial. If you are not certain, please ask. We want you to be informed and engaged in your case.
Dress Appropriately for the Court - Many courts now have signs before entering the courtroom that read "dress for the dignity of the court." Courts generally do not approve of flip fops, tank tops, halter tops or cut-offs. Clients should try to look presentable and wear clean clothing. Business casual is always acceptable in court.
Bring Bail Money to Court - Sometimes Courts may ask for bail given the nature of the charges. If required by the Court, bail must be posted at the initial appearance. Courts accept cash and frequently will also accept credit cards for bail. Please discuss the topic with your attorney.
Be Prepared to Pay Fines if your Case is Concluded - If your case is going to be resolved at the up-coming court appearance, it is always helpful to be prepared to pay any fines or surcharges. Virtually every court accepts credit cards; no court accepts personal checks.