As attorneys who defend clients charged with criminal offenses, we rightly focus heavily on the question at the top of almost every

client’s mind: “What am I facing?” Much of our efforts are spent trying to ensure that our clients spend as little time away from their

families and communities as possible. The direct consequences of a criminal conviction—jail or prison time, fines, or

supervision—are incredibly important issues for our clients and deserve our staunch efforts to advocate on behalf of clients in

plea negotiations and in the courtroom.