My name is Souder Tate, and I am a criminal defense attorney practicing in the Springfield Metro area and surrounding counties. I have practiced law for 24 years with experience both as a prosecutor and defense attorney. I would like the opportunity to discuss your case with you and show you how I can help.
Being arrested or charged with a crime is a confusing and stressful experience. You may not understand how the court system works or your constitutional rights if accused of a crime. You may be concerned about how an arrest or conviction could affect your job, your family, or your reputation. You may not know what steps you can and should be taking right now to help prepare for your case. The first step to reducing stress and confusion is to make sure you understand exactly what you are charged with and what you can expect in your case. This is why communication between an attorney and his client is so important.
From the moment I am hired, my staff and I are preparing a plan for our client's defense. Part of this plan involves discovering all the facts of the case. Once I have the facts, I apply the law to those facts in order to best advise my client as to what
is best for them. My clients receive written information explaining the status of their case. After court appearances, they receive written reminders of their next court date to reduce the chance of a failure to appear and possible warrant. Once the prosecutor makes an offer in their case, my clients receive that offer in writing along with all available options. I expect my clients to participate in the defense of their case. I want to know their questions, concerns and ideas.
I also offer each client the opportunity of having a written sentencing plan prepared at NO additional legal fee. I have been preparing written sentencing plans for my clients for over four years. The plan I have developed is called the C.A.R.E. Plan. The C.A.R.E. Plan is built around four key areas: Community, Accountability, Responsibility and Equipping, and is designed to increase my client's chance of receiving probation. It also can be used to my client's benefit throughout all stages of the criminal process, including bond reduction, plea negotiations and sentencing before the judge. Perhaps more importantly, the C.A.R.E. Plan can help my clients change the direction of their lives, giving them greater focus and motivation.
If you have been arrested or have pending criminal charges, I understand you are under a great deal of stress. However, criminal charges do not have to be the worst thing that ever happened to you. I encourage you to view your situation as a starting point. You cannot change the past; but you can Today … and tomorrow … and the rest of your lives.
I would love the opportunity to discuss your case with you. I am Souder Tate, and I have a plan for your defense.