Join Jeremy Widder of Jeremy Widder Law and Francis Granados of Mudd, Mudd & Fitzgerald, as we learn how to set ourselves up for success when hiring a lawyer, from a lawyer's expert perspective.

Let’s face it...Lawyers are expensive, and no one really ever wants to hire a lawyer. But sometimes, it’s absolutely necessary to. A line from Shakespeare’s Henry VI states: “The first thing we do, let’s kill all the lawyers.” While at first glance, this sounds extremely negative (and violent) about/towards lawyers, it’s actually the opposite. This line was actually a reference to one of the ways the group of pretenders to the throne could improve the country by killing all the lawyers. The line was an acknowledgment that the first thing any potential tyrant must do to eliminate freedom is to kill all the lawyers because lawyers provide such a valuable service. But no two lawyers are alike: it’s important that you find the best lawyer to fit your needs.

Knowing where to start or how to find a lawyer that will get you the best outcome can seem like a daunting task. Jeremy Widder and Francis Granados will explain, from a lawyer's perspective, how a potential client can set themselves up for success by knowing how to share the details of their case with a potential lawyer, what to look for in a lawyer, and what to expect from your lawyer once they’ve been retained.

This program is in partnership with the Charles County Bar Association.

From his website: Since the moment I became a criminal defense attorney, I have dedicated my career to giving a voice to my clients and offering authentic and compassionate legal help. Other attorneys will try to intimidate you. I will work for you.

Working for a high-volume criminal defense firm earlier in my career, I saw firsthand the kinds of cases that I was most passionate about. As I took on more criminal defense cases, I found my passion in being able to deliver solutions and peace of mind for my clients. With 9 years of experience working as a prosecutor, I can offer a unique perspective that will give your case the extra help it needs.

I am passionate about protecting the families of Southern Maryland – whether it’s legal help through an opiate case, a restraining order, or a violent felony, I will walk with you through the legal process.

I will listen to you, creatively problem-solve with you, and fight for you.

Let me put my passion and experience to work for you today.

Francis J. Granados | Mudd, Mudd & Fitzgerald, P.A.

From his website: Fran was born and raised in Southern Maryland. After completing grade school at St. Mary’s Bryantown, he attended DeMatha Catholic High School in Hyattsville, Maryland. He received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in 2005 from the University of Maryland, College Park. He went on to attend the Indiana University Maurer School of Law in Bloomington, Indiana, graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2008, and was appointed to the Order of the Coif and the Order of Barristers. After completing law school, Fran returned home to serve the community that raised him. He joined the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office in May of 2008. Fran served the citizens of Charles County as an Assistant State’s Attorney for ten years. Very early in his career as a prosecutor, Fran demonstrated exceptional courtroom skills and rose quickly through the ranks. For five years, Fran was the primary prosecutor responsible for investigating, charging, and trying vehicular manslaughters. In 2014, Fran was certified by the Maryland State Police in Advanced Collision Investigation. Fran also spent much of his tenure prosecuting homicides and violent crimes. He established himself as a fierce advocate for victims and their families both in and out of the courtroom. In 2016, he was honored by the Silent Witness Project for his work on behalf of victims of domestic violence. In 2018, Fran was named Assistant State’s Attorney of the Year for Charles County, primarily for his work on behalf of homicide victims and their families. Since entering private practice in 2018, Fran’s practice continues to focus on litigation, courtroom advocacy, and putting his unique skills to work advocating on behalf of victims injured by the carelessness of others.

Think Like a Lawyer: Set Up For Success When Hiring a Lawyer