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We Help Keep Good People Out Of Jail!
Invest in Your Future
Securing legal representation is crucial for many individuals, but figuring out how to pay for it can be daunting. Gone are the days of cash transactions and word-of-mouth referrals; nowadays, there are numerous trusted online payment methods available, such as Affirm, LawPay, Zelle, and Clio Payments. The real challenge lies not in finding a way to pay but rather in finding the necessary funds.
In the realm of criminal justice, quality representation comes at a cost, and it’s unlikely to find a pro bono lawyer willing to take on your case without compensation. While it may be tempting to opt for the lawyer with the lowest fee, these often turn out to be generalists who handle various areas of law, diluting their expertise.
When it comes to criminal law, the outcome of your case can profoundly impact your future, making it a significant investment. While cost is undoubtedly a factor, it shouldn’t be the sole consideration when seeking legal representation.
What truly matters is finding a law firm with the knowledge, experience, skill, and dedication to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Look for a lawyer or firm that has a proven track record in handling cases similar to yours and is familiar with the court where your case will be heard. If financing is an issue, there are several avenues you can explore to secure the necessary funds.
Timing is also critical. It’s advisable to hire a lawyer as soon as possible, even if you haven’t received a citation from the police. In the criminal justice system, early intervention can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Much like a baseball game, where the best strategy is to secure the best players from the outset, hiring the right lawyer early on can greatly increase your chances of success. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Your future is priceless.
Here are some suggestions to help you secure the best legal representation, even if you’re on a tight budget:
Finance The Cost
Investing in a criminal defense lawyer is one of the most crucial decisions you’ll ever make. Even if you need to secure financing through a personal loan, it’s essential to select the right law firm to champion your legal rights. Choosing a law firm that meets your needs is a long-term investment that can ultimately save you money down the line. Fortunately, there are various financial services available today, such as Affirm, Flexxbuy, Client Credit, and ePay Legal. These finance companies may be willing to extend a loan even if your credit score isn’t perfect.
At Future First Criminal Law, we work with multiple financing companies to provide you with different payment options. It’s common practice these days to finance significant purchases through loan companies. You or a family member can apply for and be approved for the necessary funds to hire a lawyer in under five minutes. The money is then paid directly to the law firm, streamlining the process for you, and allowing you to focus on making your monthly payments.
For example, if you need $8,000, you can apply for the entire loan amount and choose to pay it off over 6 months, 12 months, or 24 months. The monthly payments would average around $1,400, $800, or $400, respectively.
While it’s true financing companies make money through interest rates and fees, it’s important to view this as an investment. In many criminal cases, swift action is necessary to achieve the best results. Therefore, obtaining funds quickly is imperative.
Payment Plans
Some law firms offer in-house payment options and will work with you to arrange a plan that you can afford. However, these payment plans usually come with a few major risks. The primary risk is that if you miss a payment, then the firm has the option to withdraw from representation. The payments that the firm offers usually tend to be higher than other financing options. Law firms generally require a minimum of 50% of the retainer amount to be paid “down” and the balance of the retainer paid with a credit card on file for auto-withdraw monthly or bi-weekly.
Protect Your Rights | Secure Your Future
Pay With A Credit Card
If the law firm you are trying to hire does not accept credit cards, then that should be your signal to leave immediately. Credit card processing at law firms is now common practice. This option allows you to combine the above options (financing and borrowing) with the fact that you might have a credit card or two paid off and hidden away for emergency purposes. Well guess what, this is that emergency reason to use your credit card. Yes, you probably just took the last year or two to pay it off month by month, but this is the time to use it again. It is better to pay off a credit card and hire the lawyer you want, than to use that same credit card to pay off court fines and fees.
Many people also consider applying for a new credit card. Most credit card companies will approve you to get a credit card and begin using that card within a few days after being approved. This option is popular because then you do not have to ask for help and if you keep up with the payments you can improve your credit score while in the process of putting your legal situation behind you.
Ask A Family Member Or A Friend For Help
Chances are, if you’re looking to hire a criminal defense lawyer you are in some kind of trouble, so this is a good time to ask for help if you need to. Don’t let your pride get in the way. Your friends and family are your security blanket. If you know someone who may have the means to help you, don’t be afraid to ask. Explain to your family that the judge has the power to put you in jail and you need help now. You can pay family back later but the judge is not going to wait and you have to hire a lawyer as early as possible.
Life is unpredictable, and many people are struggling to make ends meet. If an emergency comes up, such as being arrested or accused of a crime, you might not have the above options. Where do you turn for help?
Remember, you do not need to tell them any of the details of your arrest. It is hard to not explain your charges to them but most people will respect that you need to maintain confidentiality and can only talk to your lawyer about what happened in your case.
Most law firms, such as Future First Criminal Law, will even allow a family member to pay the law firm directly. This is helpful in situations if your family is concerned that you might not use the money for the intended purpose. The family member who pays does not have any control over the case and all the details of the case will still remain confidential. However, the payment can be discussed with the family member. Likewise, the client still remains in control of hiring and firing the law firm, so the family member cannot turn around and take the money back unless the client ends the relationship with the law firm.
As mentioned above, there are financing companies that your friends and family members can use to apply for loans to pay for your representation. For instance, if the total cost to hire a lawyer is $8,000, then this can be split into multiple different people paying. You can pay $1,000 via credit card, then get financing for another $2,000. One of your parents might also do financing and take a loan for $4,000 since they have better credit than you do. Finally, a close friend can finance the remaining $1,000. The total balance will be paid to the law firm and they will usually wait to receive all the money prior to filing any paperwork with the court. At the end of the day, you are able to hire a law firm and then can work off paying your friends and family.
Use Your Savings Account
Most people usually have some kind of savings account whether it is for an upcoming vacation or large home appliance purchase. However, most people have been saving that money for so long that they either forgot about it in an old bank account or they think it must be spent on the thing they originally saved it for. That was the plan, but now that you need a criminal lawyer, the plan has changed. It is always better to use your savings account to pay for a lawyer and help your future than to sit on it for years to come and regret not getting the help you needed. The long-term benefit is worth it and this is why using a savings account is beneficial.
Use Your Inheritance
A big reason people leave money to family members is that money provides a certain amount of protection and security. Being able to hire a good lawyer if you need one is precisely the kind of situation an inheritance is for. Some people also know that they have an inheritance or trust that will be given to them at a later date. Instead of waiting years to receive the money–now–is the appropriate time to speak with the trust holder to ask them for an advance in your inheritance.
Use Your Retirement Fund
Your present circumstances can have a profound effect on your future retirement and career opportunities. If you have a 401k or IRA with your current employer, you may be able to withdraw money from this account. However, doing so is expensive, as you will face a hefty tax on your withdrawal amount, and an early withdraw penalty fee.
A better option is to take out a loan from your 401k. Oftentimes, you can do this with low interest. You will have to pay it back, but you are essentially paying yourself. You should speak with your employer about this.
Many people also have their own investment account for stocks and bonds on virtual apps like Robinhood and eTrade. These are intended to be long-term investment accounts but you might have to consider selling your stocks to get cash in hand.
Sell Your Car or Refinance Your House
If you are facing serious jail or prison time, chances are that you won’t be driving or living in your house if you are convicted. It may be a good idea to sell your car or refinance your house. There are a few, if any, law firms that take pink slips as collateral. Remember, your car is replaceable, but your freedom is not. The house mortgage is typically a loan that can be processed and the balance will be spread into a new 30-year term loan.
The hard part about this option is that you will need to quickly sell the car or refinance quickly. This usually means that you might not get as much money for the car as you would if you had more time to wheel and deal on the selling price. Refinancing a house is also not the quickest turn around and can be stressful to complete.
Experienced Top-Rated Arizona Lawyers Positively Impacting Lives Through Effective Legal Advocacy - Protecting Your Rights and Your Future
Future First Criminal Law is your top choice for strong DUI and Criminal defense representation. With a focus on a limited number of clients, we dedicate our full attention to each case, ensuring personalized and effective legal solutions.
Why Choose Us?
- Client-Centric Approach: We understand your future is at risk and your well-being is our priority. We tailor our defense strategies to your unique circumstances, devoting time and attention to each client. We work diligently to develop a personalized, thorough defense giving you the best possible outcome.
- Reasonable Flat-Fee Pricing: No hourly rates. Our flat fee is determined by the charge and the complexity of your case.
- Flexible Payment Plans and Loans: We offer payment plans to accommodate your financial situation, ensuring access to quality legal representation.
- Free Phone Consultations: Schedule a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options. We’re here to help. Your future matters and it is worth fighting for.
- Local Experience: We provide our clients with extensive local experience, serving exclusively in the Phoenix area and Maricopa County. Our in-depth knowledge of local laws and procedures ensures we bring a strategic advantage to your case. Ranked as the 112th fastest-growing law firm in the U.S. in 2023, we have consistently achieved successful outcomes for our clients. For 5-Star testimonials from our satisfied clients, please visit Future First's Google Reviews.
- Dedication to Defense: Our commitment to DUI & Criminal defense ensures we provide you with informed advocacy and steadfast representation.
- Video Updates from Your Lawyer: Detailed, personalized video updates from your lawyer will address your concerns/questions.
- 24/7 Case Support: Straightforward support from our legal team throughout your case. We are available via text, email or phone.
- Educate and Advocate: We believe in empowering our clients by providing comprehensive legal guidance and unwavering support throughout the legal process.
Protect Your Rights, Schedule a Complimentary Phone Consultation
If you're facing DUI or other Criminal charges in Arizona, it's crucial to enlist the help of an experienced criminal lawyer. At Future First Criminal Law, we're dedicated to safeguarding your rights and freedoms. Contact our legal team today to schedule your free phone consultation and take the first step towards a successful defense.
Joshua Black - Attorney
“I have had the pleasure of working with Mr. Divelbiss in the past and know him to be a hard working professional. His attention to detail and care for his clients set him apart from the rest!”
Alex
"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 10 Stars first of all I want to say thanks to God for these great lawyers that help me in my DUI case I want to say thank you to Trevor for being 100% professional and their team of lawyers Andrea thank you Megan thank you. On the day of my court date I was really nervous but when I seen my lawyer Zach he was really professional give me good advise. I thought I was going to lose my job but Zach my lawyer help me reduce my jail sentence to less time I just want to say thank you for being so professional Zach great lawyer 100% I recommend him to anyone that needs help with their DUI cases and doesn't matter what kind of DUI they will help you out a lot I will give them not only 10 Stars but a hundred more thank you future first criminal law I recommend them to anyone thank you."
Dean
"Future First Criminal Law exceeded my expectations, on my first court appearance an old charge came up out of no where and the judge wasn’t going to let me leave. Ed got right on his phone and got it all cleared up! It is always best to have a private lawyer especially with criminal charges, the outcome will always be better and I highly recommend future first. Ed made a personal video breaking down my charges, the discovery, and my plea offer step by step. If you are questioning whether or not to get a lawyer, future first is the way to go 100%. You can’t put a price on freedom!! Thanks Ed!!!!"
Taz
"They helped me tremendously, I had some extreme charges for my DUI and assault case, they got me the best deal I could get. 1 day jail time. Based on what I couldve spent. They have a great team, they communicate well with you an guide you thru your entire ordeal. Ed Robinson was my lawyer. I highly recommend them!!"
Jesse
"Future First Criminal Law is an excellent firm. They helped me out with a case I had. They are friendly throughout the whole process. They are professional, thorough, and I would definitely recommend them to anybody who’s in need of their services. They also allowed me to set up payment plans which was greatly appreciated. Working with them took a lot of stress, and weight off the whole situation. I just recently had them help me with my set aside as well. Thank you Future First Criminal Law."
Tyler
"Zach and his team were great! Right away after we spoke to Zach we felt a sense of relief from all of our worries and concerns. Being in a position to find an attorney isn’t always a fun thing to do. Thank you Zach and your entire firm for your constant updates and great communication. You never left us in the dark or wondering when we might have our questions answered. We will certainly refer your firm to anyone we know looking for your services. Thank you, for all your time and efforts for our case."
Adam
"If I could rate Future First Crimal Law higher I would. After making the dumb mistake of getting a DUI they have been there for me every step of the way. There is nothing worse than going at this alone. You want someone in your corner during this stressful time and no one is better than Zach and his team there. They walk you through everything, keeps records of a what you need to do for the courts and sends it to them, and gets you the best case scenario sentence. Without them the consequences would’ve been much worse so very thankful to the team."
Zat
"I am so grateful for the service I was given by all the Team of Future First Criminal Law and particularly Attorney ED Robinson, from the Day one of my appearances until the sentencing he was there encouraging me and the Defense he has taken on my behalf has made me more confident and all my stress and Depression was gone, I’m so thanks full for helping me in this terrible situation. I’ll be suggesting you to everyone in my situation. God Bless Future First Criminal Law; God Bless Attorney ED Robinson."
Celeste
"I would just like to express the life changing help and support I received from the legal team at Future First! The endless hours and resources spent by these legal professionals really made a significant impact on my life. I’m so grateful for the help of the legal system and experts whom treated my case like it was their own. I truly know that they can do the same for you! Thanks again to everyone at Future First, words can’t even begin to express my gratitude for getting me the best possible outcome! Happy holidays. I’m happy to be spending mine with friends and family while continuing to be a contributing member of society."
Josephine Hallam - Attorney
“Attorney Divelbiss is bright, hard-working, and well-versed in criminal law. His legal writing is superb, and his commitment to his clients is outstanding. He will fight for you and offer you the best defense possible. Additionally, he is a pleasure to work with. I fully endorse this lawyer.”
Dustin
"This team are absolute rockstars!!! They resolved my legal endeavors in a timely & affordable manner. Not only did they do everything I needed…but they basically took the reins with no inconvenience to myself and were on the ball with every step. I highly recommend their expertise!"
Ryan Renauro - Criminal Defense Attorney
"I can't say enough good things about Zachary. I have had the privileged to meet him through professional channels and he has helped me out a ton with the knowledge he possesses, his experience, and his kind heart and willingness to go the extra mile to help."
Future First Criminal Law stands as a seasoned legal team ready to assist with DUI and Criminal charges in the Phoenix Metro area. Discover how our team can be instrumental in navigating through your legal challenges.
We Help Keep Good People Out Of Jail!
Top-Rated Legal Team Dedicated to DUI and Criminal Law
Positively Impacting Lives Through Effective Legal Advocacy - One Case At A Time!
At Future First Criminal Law, we believe everyone deserves a second chance. That’s why we provide strong, strategic DUI and criminal defense representation, setting ourselves apart as a trusted choice in the Phoenix area.
Our approach is simple but impactful: by focusing on a select number of clients, we ensure each case receives the personalized attention it deserves. We take the time to understand the unique details of your situation, because no two cases are the same.
We know what’s at stake. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to craft tailored defense strategies that protect your rights and safeguard your future. From leveling the playing field in the courtroom to guiding you through every step of the legal process, our goal is clear: to help you avoid incarceration and move forward with confidence.
At Future First Criminal Law, we’re more than your legal advocates—we’re your partners in navigating the complexities of the justice system, empowering you to achieve the best possible outcome.
