Interview with Attorney John Fox
Dedicated San Antonio Criminal Defense Lawyer
#1: What made you choose a career in criminal law?
Very early on in law school, I realized that I wanted to practice in an area of law where I dealt with clients directly, rather than at arm's length. Criminal charges often create a great deal of stress for defendants and their families. They need a lawyer who can personally explain all aspects of the charges and help them decide on the best course for them to minimize the impact on their families as a whole.
#2: In your opinion, what sets your firm apart from other firms in the area?
The time we take with each client going over their cases and explaining their legal options to them. Information is power and I want each client to feel that they are fully aware of each step of the legal process as their case proceeds.
#3: Tell us about a case that you are particularly proud of:
Last year, a family came to me with their 21-year old son, who was about to graduate college with an accounting degree and a brilliant future ahead of him. Unfortunately, he had gotten involved with drugs and had been caught with a felony amount of marijuana. Through a careful analysis of the evidence and negotiation with the prosecutor, we were able to have his charge reduced to a misdemeanor which we were later able to seal, effectively leaving him with no public criminal record to interfere with his future plans.
#4: What steps do you take to prepare for a difficult case?
I carefully interview each client in order to be familiar with their personal background, as well as the facts of their case. A thorough review of all police reports, videos and witness statements is next. Additionally, a lot of research goes into most criminal cases. There are statutory considerations as well as an analysis of the most recent case law decisions that interpret those same statutes. A thorough knowledge of the court you will be in is also important. Finally, a good working relationship with the prosecuting attorneys and the judge in the case is critical in getting a good outcome.
#5: How do you view your role in the attorney-client relationship?
Attorneys are also known as "counselors at law" for the specific reason that we are not just legal defenders. Counseling clients with family, financial, mental health and drug and alcohol dependency issues is also an important part of the work. I view myself as there to serve the client in whatever role he or she needs.
#6: What sets you apart from other criminal defense attorneys – why is this important?
When the average criminal law client hires a criminal law attorney, they believe they just have a "now" problem. But, in this day and age of digital criminal records, you have to consider both the short term AND long term effect in terms of a client's defense. This is a major focus I take on every client. I want to know what their future plans and dreams are so that I can make every effort to not let their criminal charges negatively affect them now and in the future. To me, this is crucial and is the only way to effectively approach criminal defense.
#7: How does having experience benefit your clients?
My staff and I have nearly 20 years of experience dealing with a full range of criminal cases. Over the years, I have also personally developed a strong network of expert witnesses, investigators, and consultants that help us find the best possible defense for each and every client. It has taken many years to establish those relationships with experts whose opinions my clients can rely upon.
#8: What types of cases do you specifically handle?
All criminal cases ranging from traffic tickets to murder. Additionally, in recent years we have begun to represent many clients regarding driver's license suspension issues. Another big part of our focus is on working with clients to seal or expunge their criminal history records in order to open up educational and employment opportunities for them.
#9: In your opinion, what is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
Helping people get through what, for many of them, may be a very frightening time.
#10: What advice do you most often give your clients & why?
Consult with an experienced and qualified defense attorney before making any statement to the police whenever you are suspected of a crime. Your constitutional rights are important. Use them!