Frequently Asked Questions
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What should I do if I'm arrested?
Stay calm, remain silent, and politely ask to speak with an attorney. Do not answer questions or provide statements to law enforcement without legal representation present. Anything you say CAN AND WILL be used against you in court.
Do I need a lawyer if I plan to plead guilty?
Yes. Even if you plan to plead guilty, you should have a lawyer. An attorney can review the evidence, explain your rights, and negotiate a plea that minimizes the penalties and long term consequences. Many clients discover that their case is actually defensible once a lawyer examines the facts, the police reports, and the legal issues. You will not know what your options truly are until an attorney evaluates the case.
What happens at an arraignment?
At an arraignment, you are formally charged with a crime and the judge asks for your plea. The judge may also set bail or give you rules to follow while the case is open. Most cases move on to pretrial, but sometimes a lawyer can help resolve the case right at arraignment. An attorney can look at the evidence, protect your rights, and tell you if the case can be resolved quickly or if you should fight the charges.
How will a criminal record affect my future?
A criminal record can impact employment, housing, education opportunities, and professional licensing. In some cases, records can be sealed or expunged to reduce their impact.
What should I do if I’m accused of a crime I didn’t commit?
Avoid discussing the case with anyone except your attorney. A skilled defense attorney can investigate the allegations, challenge unlawful evidence, file motions to dismiss, and take the case to trial to confront the witnesses if needed. Innocent people are protected by these rights – USE THEM!
Can I seal or expunge my criminal record?
Yes, in many cases, you can seal or expunge a criminal record, depending on the laws in your state and the nature of the offense. Eligibility often depends on factors like the time elapsed since the offense, the type of crime, and whether you’ve met all court-ordered conditions.
How long will my case take?
It depends. In the criminal courts, some cases are resolved quickly, even on the first court date. Others can take a year or more, especially if there’s extensive discovery, motion practice, or a trial.
Divorces also vary. There’s a mandatory waiting period in both Rhode Island and Massachusetts, and the process can take time to finalize. If there are issues that need to be worked out—like custody, support, or property division—it may take longer. Every case is different, and I’ll keep you informed about what to expect at each stage.
How does the divorce process in MA and RI work?
The divorce process begins with filing a petition or complaint for divorce with the family court. This includes providing information about your marriage, finances, children. Once filed, your spouse must be formally served with the divorce papers and given an opportunity to respond. The process may involve temporary orders for issues like child support or spousal support, discovery to exchange financial information, and efforts to resolve disputes through negotiation or mediation. If agreements cannot be reached, the case proceeds to trial. Throughout the process, an experienced family law attorney can help protect your interests and guide you toward the best possible outcome.
What if I'm involved in a DCYF or DCF case?
DCF and DCYF cases are complex, and the goals vary from family to family. It’s important to get legal representation right away, because these cases can affect custody, placement, and long term decisions about your child’s safety and wellbeing. With over ten years of experience working within the DCYF system, I can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and advocate for the outcome that best supports your family.
Can child support or custody orders be modified?
Yes, child support and custody orders can be modified if there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a change in income, relocation, or a shift in the child’s needs. You may be entitled to more support or to pay less depending on the situation. It’s important to act quickly.
How much does a lawyer cost in MA or RI?
The cost depends on the complexity of the case. Matters involving extensive motion work, investigations, expert witnesses, or a trial require more preparation, which affects the fee.
I’m always upfront about pricing and willing to work with clients to find a payment structure that fits their situation. If you’d like to discuss your case and get a clear idea of potential costs, I offer free consultations.
How do I get in touch to talk about my case?
You can contact the Law Office of Meaghan Fiske by calling 508-343-0846 to schedule a consultation. I am here to answer your questions and provide the guidance you need to protect your rights and navigate the legal process.
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