For most people, getting arrested can be one of the most traumatic and loneliest events in their lives. It is frightening, because all of a sudden you must deal with the mysterious and harsh criminal justice system. And it is lonely, because you feel like you are the only person who has ever gone through the ordeal.
At the first consultation, which is free, I try to address the anxiety head on by telling the potential client what I think I can do for him or her and how much it will cost. Throughout the process, I explain to the client what his or her options are and what the potential benefits and hazards are for each choice. Once in a while, what I say is not what the client wants to hear. I advise it anyways, because I think it is absolutely essential to be upfront with my clientele from day one.
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As a small businessman, I know that legal fees can be one of the largest expenses for a person or a household. That is why I try to keep my fees competitive and, where money is tight, I will consider a payment plan. In most criminal cases I work on a flat fee basis and in all cases the retainer agreement is reduced to writing and the client provided a copy. In any event, although I can not promise you a specific outcome, I can promise you that I will try to get the best one possible.
I have practiced law, with an emphasis on criminal matters, for twenty five years. I work in the federal, state, juvenile, and appellate courts. I have a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Pennsylvania and a law degree from the Washington College of Law at American University. Following law school, I worked as Public Defender in New York City and in Connecticut. Shortly after entering private practice, I became a member of the Criminal Justice Act Panel and have engaged in federal criminal defense ever since. Over the years, I have also accepted numerous appointments by the court to be a Special Public Defender. In addition to my private practice I have taught a course in Juvenile Delinquency at Capitol Community College in Hartford. Finally, as much of my work involves criminal appeals, I have argued and won cases in Connecticut's Appellate and Supreme Courts.
When you step into court, you never know what the outcome will be, but the more you do to protect your rights today, the better chance you have at protecting your freedom. Offering flexible hours and available on weekends, Attorney Collins is ready to help you prepare for court. Contact him today for a free initial consultation.
The Manchester, CT Law Offices of Matthew J. Collins represents clients throughout Central and Eastern Connecticut, including Bloomfield, Danielson, East Hartford, Enfield, Glastonbury, Hartford, Rockville, South Windsor, Tolland, Vernon, West Hartford, Wethersfield, Willimantic, Hartford County, New London County, and Tolland County.