Substantial Steps in Criminal Law

Attorneys with a solid foundation and understanding of the criminal justice process can better defend their clients when the time comes. This course will provide attorneys with an introduction to criminal defense, including common issues, case types, consequences of arrest and convictions, and strategies for defending clients.

Mr. DeMatteo will explore the foundations of criminal law practice, from the clients and offenses attorneys may encounter to the stages of the criminal process and the differences between state and federal violations and processes. Attorneys will learn the difference between case types and the subsequent consequences of convictions. Finally, attendees will explore how they can strategically tailor their approach to clients and cases to defend them across the different criminal process stages.

This seminar is designed for newer attorneys and attorneys interested in transitioning into criminal defense work.

Learning Objectives:

1. Examine the types of clients encountered in a criminal practice and the problems they face. 
2. Explore the types of offenses, sentences, and other standard dispositions in criminal cases. 
3. Assess basic collateral consequences (indirect effects of arrests and convictions). 
4. Develop an intake strategy to determine what is at stake for clients and what issues need to be considered. 
5. Gain an understanding of significant legal issues, such as constitutional violations, and defenses that should be considered in reviewing and preparing a case. 
6. Discover strategies to employ in fighting criminal cases.