My Defense Philosophy

My primary concern and ultimate goal is to obtain the best resolution that could be obtained by any attorney. So, where one attorney might settle for a probation offer and another attorney might have won at trial or have been be able to negotiate a dismissal; I would like to think that I always strive to be the latter attorney, not the attorney who settled for the easiest or fastest resolution that could be reached.

This philosophy is important for practical reasons beyond what you might initially expect or consider. Specifically, a criminal plea, regardless of whether adjudication was withheld, can effect a client's immigration status, it can affect their driving record and subject them to future penalties, a plea could make you ineligible to ever have your record sealed or expunged, it could subject a client to harsher penalties if accused of similar offenses in the future, it could make every day things like renting a car or apartment impossible, and ultimately could forever tarnish an otherwise stellar reputation.

Importantly, if actions speak louder than words, I hope my trial results and jury verdicts speak for how hard I fight for my clients. I firmly believe that no innocent person should be afraid to exercise their right to a trial and I understand that the only way a person can do that is with the help of an attorney that they know they can depend on. Nevertheless, I also understand that the thought of a jury trial is terrifying to some, as the outcome can not be guaranteed.

So while I have a passion for the courtroom, I attempt to resolve every client's case without the need for a trial. To accomplish this, I analyze each case as if it will be tried to verdict, by investigating the facts, identifying all available legal defenses, researching the legal issues, and filing the necessary defensive motions. This way, when the time comes for you to choose between a trial or a negotiated settlement, I want you to be able to make an informed and intelligent decision knowing that both your case and your attorney are ready for trial.

It is this philosophy that I believe separates myself from my peers and one that will bring you satisfaction if you should retain my services.

Sincerely,
Richard E. Hornsby